Stocking up now for a natural disastera flood, hurricane, or blizzardwill help you weather the storm.

Key Takeaways

Why should you consider stocking up on emergency foods for a potential natural disaster?

Fueling your body during a crisis is very different from your everyday diet.

(Think of how an emergency fund functions differently than a savings account.)

“You want some nutrients and some fibersomething to keep your diet normal.”

“But if you plan right, you might have a great variety of foods and nutrients.”

Here, Andress and Swanson weigh in on what itemsperishable and non-perishableyou should include.

Make a list of everything in your stockpile andcheck expiration datesevery six to 12 months to keep things fresh.

Peanut Butter

A great source of energy, peanut butter is chock-full of healthy fats and protein.

Unless the jar indicates otherwise, youdon’t have to refrigerateafter opening.

Whole-Wheat Crackers

Crackers are a good replacement for bread and make a fine substitute when making sandwiches.

Consider vacuum-packing your crackers to prolong their freshness.

The toasted crackers give a bit more of a healthful kick and are made without high-fructose corn syrup.

Look for vacuum-packed containers, which prevent the nuts from oxidizing and losing their freshness.

Cereal

Choose multigrain cereals that are individually packaged so they don’t become stale after opening.

Plus, they’re an excellent source of carbohydrates.

“you might get more energy from carbohydrates without [eating] tons of food,” says Andress.

“Dried fruits provide you with a significant amount of nutrients and calories,” says Swanson.

To get all that nutritional goodness, pick up a variety box of Crispy Fruit.

Inside, you’ll find freeze-dried packs of apples, Asian pears, and tangerines.

Each pack is simply pure fruit, meaning no preservatives, sweeteners, or additives at all.

Moreover, vacuum-sealed packs may come in handy if you don’t have a can opener.

They also provide a variety of nutrients.

Look forlow-sodium optionsand those containing beans for extra protein.

Combined with the canned veggies on this list, you might easily whip together a hearty bowl.

Bottled Water

It’s important todrink enough water every day.

attempt to stock at least a three-day supplyyou need at least one gallon per person daily.

“A normally active personshould drink at least a half gallon of watereach day,” Andress says.

“The other half gallon is for adding to food and washing.”

To ensure everyone stays hydrated, purchase a case of water that comes with essential minerals added to it.

Essentia’s bottled water has added electrolytes to aid in hydration and improve the taste.

Go for an organic, resealable option from NOW Foods.

Multivitamins

Supplements will help replace the nutrients you would have consumed on a normal diet.

But vitamins don’t have to be boring.

Instead, opt for a delicious fruity gummy from SmartyPants.

There are evenways to keep bagged salad freshlonger.

If your fridge is still working,storing applesinside will help them last longer.

Oranges and grapefruits contain lots of vitamin C and will keep you hydrated.

Tomatoes

If you buy them unripe, tomatoes will last several days at room temperature.

Stored in a cool, dark area, potatoes will last about a month.

If you’ll be able to cook during the emergency, stock up on a bunch.

Unopened, they will keep for up to six weeks in the pantry, says Van.

If you have power and can keep it in the fridge or freezer, it’ll last longer.

(Tortillas will last longer than bread.)

Going with whole-grain or whole-wheat options is ideal since these kinds pack more nutrients than white bread.

Here are some extra considerations to keep in mind and stay ahead of the game (or storm).

For example, consider usingglass food storage containers.

If you don’t have electricity, you may still be able to cook or heat your food.

If you’re stuck indoors, keep a can of Sterno handy.

It’s essentially heat in a can.

It requires no electricity and can warm up small amounts of food in cookware.

Keep an extra stash of baby formula and jars of baby food or a backup supply of your medications.

Note that water damage like stains on hardwood floors and carpetscan be removedwithpantry stapleslike distilled vinegar and mayonnaise.

So don’t toss out that refrigerator condiment just yet.

CDC,Creating and Storing an Emergency Water Supply.Date Accessed April 18, 2022.

USDA,Refrigerator and Food Safety: Safe Refrigerator Temperature.Accessed Jan. 27, 2023.

National Center for Home Food Preservation,Frequently Asked Questions: Freezing.Accessed Jan. 27, 2023.

“Floods: Key Tips for Consumers About Food and Water Safety.”

U.S. Food & Drug Administration.