Emergency Food Storage Guidelines

An emergency food storage is a supply of non-perishable, canned, freeze-dried and dehydrated food products that families can use when experiencing a state of emergency that prohibits them from purchasing food at a store.

Foods

The amount and type of foods that need to go in a food storage greatly depends upon the number of people the storage is meant to supply, and the length of time the storage is meant to last. Larger food storages are needed for larger families and storages meant to last more than three months. For a food storage meant to last three months or less, simply include non perishable foods that are a part of normal diets such as pastas, pasta sauces, pancake mix, canned soup, etc. For food storages meant to last longer than 3 months include food items such as grains, canned beans and freeze-dried and dehydrated foods.

Water

Water is a necessity to any emergency food storage. An individual needs approximately one gallon of water each day. It is important to store water in a cool, dry place in plastic containers that are tightly sealed.

How to Start

Anyone wishing to start a food storage can do so gradually by adding a few storable items and water containers over time. It is recommended to start by adding storable foods that individuals usually purchase at the store, then eventually expanding to include some longer-shelf life items, such as grains, later.

Where to Store

All food storage supplies must be stored in a cool, dry and dark area. Basements that are not prone to flooding, garages, spare bedrooms, crawl spaces and closets are all good options for storing food. Attics are generally not recommended as they tend to overheat in summer and freeze in winter.

Considerations

While individuals can start a food storage with freeze dried, canned and other non-perishable food items from the store, there are several companies that sell pre-boxed food storage supplies. Consumers can buy pre-boxed foods to last 72 hours, one month, three months, six months, a year or several years. Such packages typically include just-add-water meals, powdered milk and freeze-dried meats. Those who have a food storage must keep an eye on expiration dates. It is important to circulate food stuffs when nearing expiration dates to avoid food spoilage.

References

• National Terrorist Alert: Emergency Water Storage
• Are You Prepared: 7 Steps to Food Storage
• Be Prepared: Products
• Provident Living: FAQs