by Jack
FEMA says we all need to have at least 7 days worth of food and water in the event of an emergency. Here are the kinds of foods that can sit on the shelf for long periods in any climate. This is just common sense. You don’t have to be paranoid recluse to be well stocked on food and water.
Here’s a sample of foods that could save your life:
Peanut butter – A great source of energy, peanut butter is full of healthful fats and protein. Unless the jar indicates otherwise, you don’t have to refrigerate after opening.
Whole-wheat crackers – Crackers are a good replacement for bread and make a fine substitute when making sandwiches. Due to their higher fat content, whole-wheat or whole-grain crackers have a shorter shelf life than their plain counterparts (check the box for expiration dates), but the extra fiber pays off when you’re particularly hungry. Consider vacuum-packing your crackers to prolong their freshness.
Nuts and trail mixes – high-energy foods–they’re healthful and convenient for snacking.
Cereal – Choose multigrain cereals that are individually packaged so they don’t become stale after opening.
Granola bars and power bars
Note: In a serious disaster where you will need a lot of water, use your hot water tank for fresh water. I holds on average at least 30 gallons. The hot water tank gets overlooked a lot as a fresh water source.
Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins
Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey – good for 2 years plus!
Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas
Canned soups and chili – soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can and provide a variety of nutrients. Look for low-sodium options.
Bottled water – “Normally active people should drink at least a half gallon of water each day,”
Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade – The electrolytes and carbohydrates in these drinks will help you rehydrate and replenish fluid when water is scarce.
Powdered milk – This milk substitute is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D when fresh milk isn’t an option.
*Sugar, salt, and pepper
Multivitamins – Supplements will help replace the nutrients you would have consumed on a normal diet.
Great advise Jack, I just did a Costco run and got most of what you listed. Cleaned out a storage cabinet in my garage and kitchen pantry, and plan to add to it every month as I can afford.
Also, dont forget batteries, TP, paper plates, plastic utensils (no water needed to clean) and a good first aid kit.
Oh, dear … didn’t it use to be three days?
But I don’t know what you guys are worried about. You’re unlikely to be quaked to any serious degree. Nuking is a real long-shot. You grow everything you might need. I don’t … I really don’t … understand why you are not a more contented people.
I have read and heard some really stupid statements in my life, but Lybbia poo-poohing a column by Jack on disaster preparedness really takes the cake. Is she a drunk and/or a stoner? I would suggest she get a life but given her output in the comments section of these pages, that doesn’t quite seem possible.
Pie, Why are you surprised at what Libs said, Im not. Shes a progressive liberal who doesnt believe she needs to take care of herself, because shes expecting the rest of us have to. When the next big quake hits, and it will, shell be up here demanding we take care of her. FAT CHANCE!