Stock Up on These 15 Nutritious Survival Foods for Any Emergency

Stock Up on Nutritious Survival Food for Emergencies

Having a stockpile of nutritious food on hand for emergencies is one of the best ways to be prepared for any disaster scenario. Whether it's a natural disaster that knocks out power in your area or a personal financial setback that limits grocery budgets, having survival food ready means one less thing to stress about. With the right planning and storage, you can build a robust food supply that will keep you and your family eating nutritious meals during tough times.

Canned and Jarred Fruits, Vegetables and Meats

Canned and jarred foods are survival food staples for good reason - they check the boxes for long shelf life, nutritional value, affordability and versatility. Fruits and vegetables like peaches, pears, carrots, potatoes, beans, tomatoes and many more all retain decent levels of nutrients if processed with minimal heating after being picked at peak freshness. Look for options packed in juice or water rather than heavy syrups to reduce added sugars.

Canned and jarred meats like tuna, salmon, chicken, ham and beef also have excellent shelf lives of at least 2 years and can provide protein in meals. Buying meats packed in water and using the liquid in recipes allows you to get added value from your survival food supply. Shop for reputable brands and minimize heavily processed options when building your stockpile.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like rice, quinoa, oats, barley, farro, wheat berries, etc. are filling, energizing survival foods. Opt for whole grains over refined grains because they contain more fiber, protein and nutrients. If stored properly in airtight containers in cool, dry places, most whole grains will keep for extended periods. Combine them with canned or dried vegetables, meats, beans, herbs and more to make nutritious meals in any situation.

Pastas made from whole grains are also smart survival foods that can partner with a variety of sauces and proteins. Varieties like elbow noodles, penne, spirals and spaghetti store easily and cook up quickly into satisfying meals.

Dried Beans, Peas and Lentils

Beans, peas and lentils are nourishing, affordable prepper foods. Varieties like kidney beans, pinto beans, split peas, black eyed peas, lentils and more come dried to make them shelf stable. Soaking or cooking them in boiling water will reconstitute them when you're ready to use them. Beans and legumes are packed with protein, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. Pair them with rice, whole grain noodles or vegetables for plant-based survival meals.

Canned beans can also be stockpiled for at least 2 years if stored properly. Rinse and drain them before adding them to recipes for boosted nutrition.

Broths and Soups

Having a variety of canned or dry broths and soups on hand is convenient in emergencies. They allow you to whip up quick meals and get in additional servings of vegetables, beans and grains. Look for low-sodium options and ones without unnecessary chemicals and preservatives. Rotate through your stock every 6-12 months.

Bouillon cubes and dried soup mixes also have long shelf lives for easy access to quick flavor. Add them to boiled water with canned or dried ingredients for fast soup.

Freeze Dried Fruits and Vegetables

Freeze dried produce gives you the nutrition of vegetables and fruit in compact, lightweight, easy-to-store packages. While more expensive initially, a little goes a long way and it lasts for up to 25 years. Freeze dried options like strawberries, peaches, green beans, broccoli and much more retain their structure, taste and nutritional value once water is added back.

Maintaining a variety of nutrients from produce is crucial in survival situations. Freeze dried lets you have nutritious fruits and veggies without sacrificing shelf life or storage space.

Nut Butters

Nut and seed butters like peanut, almond, sunflower and tahini butter are calorie and nutrient-dense survival foods. Rich in protein, healthy fats and various vitamins and minerals, they can sustain energy levels and keep you feeling full. Look for options with just nuts or seeds and minimal added oils and sugars.

Nut butters store for at least a year unopened but will keep for several months after opening if stored properly. Try simple combos like apple slices with nut butter or add them into oatmeal, smoothies and even stir fries.

Jams and Preserves

Stocking up on fruit spreads like jams, jellies and preserves provides a tasty way to break up the survival food monotony. They also provide quick energy from natural sugars. You can find options made from berries, stone fruits, figs and more. Avoid heavily processed ones with added fake sugars.

Incorporate fruit spreads into meals by pairing them with nut butters or whole grain breads and muffins. They also make plain oatmeal and pancakes more exciting.

Honey

Honey is one of the most shelf-stable survival foods thanks to its concentrated sugar content. It contains compounds that inhibit microbial growth and can safely be stored unrefrigerated for years if kept away from moisture. Honey provides carbohydrates along with antioxidants.

Stir it into teas, oatmeals, yogurts and baked goods for natural sweetness. You can also use it in salad dressings and marinades. Avoid giving it to infants due to botulism risks.

Hard Cheeses

Varieties of hard cheese like cheddar, Colby, Parmesan and Romano have some of the longest shelf lives in the dairy category. They provide protein and calcium for survival food pantries. The aging that gives them a longer shelf life of 1-2 years also intensifies their flavor, so a little can add lots of taste.

Grate hard cheeses over canned vegetable soups and whole grain pastas to make them heartier. Snacking on hard cheese will help you get more calories when fresh produce isn't as readily available.

Crackers

Crackers made from whole grains can stand up to long term storage when kept in airtight containers. Simple options like plain rye or whole wheat crackers provide light crunchy fuel to keep up energy. They also partner with other survival foods like nut butters, hard cheeses and canned fish for easy snacks.

Look for low-salt, additive-free crackers to stash away. Kill bacteria by crisping them up again in the oven after long storage.

Canned Meats

In addition to basic canned tuna and chicken, look for canned varieties of salmon, crab, clams and oysters for survival food pantries. They provide essential amino acids and healthy omega 3 fatty acids. With crackers, the cans also make instant meals when cooking fuel is limited.

Avoid cans with damaged seals or major dents. Use older ones first and incorporate the liquid into salads, rice dishes and chowders.

Pasta

Pasta, especially whole grain varieties, is an ideal survival food. It cooks up quickly and can be paired with almost anything. Elbow macaroni, penne, spaghetti and spiral pasta shapes are compact, pack lots of calories and store for up to 2 years.

Combine your pasta with canned sauces and veggies, dried herbs, olive oil and protein sources for easy survival meals. Use the leftover pasta water in sauces for added nutrients.

Essential Equipment and Supplies for Storing Survival Food

Properly storing your survival food stockpile is just as important as the foods themselves. Invest in quality storage containers, locations and accessories to give your food the longest shelf life possible.

Airtight Food Containers

Clear plastic bins, buckets, jars and mylar bags with oxygen absorbers create an airtight seal to protect dried goods. This prevents air exposure that can lead to staleness, spoilage and pests. Label everything clearly and store in cool, dry places.

Location - Cool and Dry

Areas like basements, cellars and interior closets maintain more stable cool temperatures that prolong food freshness. Make sure storage areas stay dry as moisture leads to mold growth. Rotate stock from the back to front to use oldest first.

Emergency Can Opener

A non-electric can opener allows you to safely access canned survival foods when the power goes out. Choose sturdy versions with comfortable hand grips. Also have a small pair of scissors or shears to open pouches.

Propane or Butane Stove

Manual portable stoves from brands like Camp Chef, Coleman and Gas One allow you to cook with propane or butane canisters even during power failures. This makes meals from your survival food supplies possible during emergencies.

Survival Food Safety and Maintenance

Follow these tips for keeping your survival food stash at top quality so its ready for emergencies.

Date and Organize

Date all foods using a marker when you first store them. Place newer items behind older ones and keep an inventory list updated. This allows for organized rotating and replenishing.

Group similar items together in storage containers and shelves. This makes taking inventory easier and minimizes forgetting things.

Inspect Regularly

At least every 6-12 months, thoroughly inspect all survival foods, checking for damage, spoilage signs and expiration dates. Discard anything questionable.

Check containers for secure lids and seals. Replace any that are warped, rusted or otherwise compromised.

Replace and Diversify

Aim to eat and replace at least a quarter of your survival food stockpile annually. This ensures you have a diverse range of not just staples but comfort foods for morale too.

Factor in any dietary restrictions and new favorites when replenishing. A varied, nutritious stockpile prevents food fatigue if you need to rely on it.

Stay Ready with Nutritious Emergency Foods

Preparing for emergencies starts with gathering a diverse supply of survival foods that meet your familys preferences and dietary needs. Now that you know some of the best options for nutrition, affordability and longevity, you can stock up with confidence. Rotate and replenish your stockpile regularly and safely store foods to optimize longevity. Then rest easy knowing you have reliable access to nourishing foods no matter what the future holds.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.