Emergency Food Preparedness

Natural disasters and emergencies can happen with little warning. In the hours and days that follow, stores may be closed, roads may be inaccessible, and utilities such as electricity and gas may be unavailable.

Without refrigeration or cooking equipment, preparing meals can become difficult. That's why it's important to have a supply of nutritious, non-perishable foods ready before an emergency occurs.

Experts recommend keeping enough food and water on hand to support every member of your household for at least 72 hours.

Why a 72-Hour Emergency Food Supply Is Important

An emergency food supply can help ensure your family has access to safe and nutritious meals when everyday resources are limited.

Having food readily available can help:

• Reduce stress during an emergency
• Provide reliable nutrition when stores are closed
• Support children, older adults, and individuals with special dietary needs
• Eliminate the need to travel during unsafe conditions

The key is choosing foods that are easy to store, simple to access, and ready to eat when needed.

How to Choose Emergency Food Supplies

When building your emergency food kit, keep convenience and nutrition in mind.

Select Foods That Require Little to No Preparation

Choose foods that:

• Do not require refrigeration
• Do not require cooking
• Require little or no water
• Can be eaten directly from the package

These options are especially important if utilities are unavailable.

Choose Low-Sodium Foods

Foods high in salt can increase thirst, which can become a challenge if water supplies are limited.

Consider stocking:

• Salt-free crackers
• Whole-grain cereals
• Low-sodium canned foods
• Foods with higher liquid content

Consider Your Family's Dietary Needs

Every household is different.

Be sure to include foods that meet the needs of:

• Infants and young children
• People with diabetes
• Older adults
• Individuals with food allergies
• Family members on special diets

Look for Durable Packaging

Select products with packaging that can withstand long-term storage and protect food from:

• Moisture
• Pests
• Accidental openings
• Physical damage

Don't Forget Essential Supplies

Be sure to include:

• A manual can opener
• Paper plates and utensils
• Napkins
• Food storage bags

Emergency Food List: What to Include

Building a food supply doesn't have to be complicated. Many emergency-ready foods may already be in your pantry.

Recommended Emergency Food Items

Ready-to-Eat Meals

• MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)
• Shelf-stable packaged meals

Protein and High-Energy Foods

• Peanut butter
• Low-sodium crackers
• Granola bars
• Trail mix
• Nuts and seeds

Canned Foods

• Soups
• Chili
• Beans
• Seafood
• Fruits packed in juice
• Vegetables

Healthy Snacks

• Energy bars
• Dried fruits
• Dried vegetables
• Cookies and crackers

Beverages

• Canned or boxed juices
• Shelf-stable milk
• Canned coffee drinks

Pantry Staples

• Whole-grain cereals
• Vitamins and supplements

Supplies for Infants and Special Diets

Don't forget to include:

• Infant formula
• Baby food
• Medical nutrition products
• Specialty foods required for dietary restrictions

Don't Forget Your Pets

Emergency preparedness includes every member of your household, including your pets.

Keep at least a 72-hour supply of:

• Pet food
• Water
• Treats, if needed
• Feeding supplies

Use Foods Your Family Already Enjoys

You do not need to purchase unfamiliar foods to create an emergency kit.

In fact, familiar foods can be especially comforting during periods of stress.

Consider using foods already found in your pantry, such as:

• Canned foods
• Dry mixes
• Cereals
• Shelf-stable snacks

These items often require little preparation and can help provide a sense of normalcy during an emergency.

Emergency Food Storage Tips

Proper storage helps maintain food quality and extends shelf life.

Store Food in a Cool, Dry Location

Keep your emergency food supply in an area that is:

• Dry
• Temperature-controlled when possible
• Easy to access during an emergency

Protect Food From Pests

Store boxed and packaged foods in tightly sealed plastic containers to help protect them from:

• Insects
• Rodents
• Moisture

Inspect Canned Goods Regularly

Discard any cans that are:

• Swollen
• Leaking
• Dented
• Rusted or corroded

Damaged cans may pose a health risk and should not be consumed.

Check Expiration Dates

Review your emergency food supply regularly.

Be sure to:

• Use food before it expires
• Replace older items with fresh supplies
• Rotate foods throughout the year

Emergency Food Preparedness Checklist

To build a reliable 72-hour emergency food supply:

• Stock non-perishable foods
• Choose ready-to-eat items whenever possible
• Include low-sodium options
• Plan for special dietary needs
• Store a manual can opener
• Keep food in a cool, dry place
• Rotate supplies before expiration dates
• Remember food and water for pets

Be Prepared Before an Emergency Happens

Creating a 72-hour emergency food supply is one of the simplest ways to prepare your family for unexpected situations. By stocking nutritious, shelf-stable foods and maintaining your emergency supplies throughout the year, you'll be better prepared to stay safe, healthy, and comfortable when disaster strikes.