How to Buy Survival Food by the Week

Keep a minimum of 7 gallons per person per week.

In an emergency, having your supply of survival food at the ready is essential for your health. Grocery stores may close if a health crisis occurs to prevent further spreading the disease or due to a natural disaster. The Washington Military Department states the Washington Departments of Health and Emergency Management recommends a minimum supply of one week. Canned products store well for times of emergency. Meats, fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and soups are all available in canned form.

Things You'll Need

• Large plastic storage bin with lid

Instructions

1. Decide what types of canned foods you and your household wants to eat for a week. Include foods from all major food groups. In the meat category, choose from canned meat, chicken, tuna, turkey, beef stew, chili, soup, nuts, peanut butter and spaghetti and meatballs. Choose among canned vegetables juices, vegetables, fruits, dried fruit and fruit juices in the vegetable and fruit category. Canned milk, dry milk and processed shelf-stable cheese are the choices for the dairy group. The grains group has cereal, pretzels, crackers and instant oatmeal you can choose from. Write down a list of your choices.

2. Multiply the number of people in your household by the number of cans they will consume each day. Include infants and those with special needs. The minimum amount is two cans per person per day. Multiply the daily ration by seven for the amount of canned foods you will need for the week.

3. Add water to your list at 7 gallons per person for the week. One gallon per person per day is the minimum. Add more water for persons performing physical activities.

4. Note the amount of food your pets will need. Include their usual amounts of canned and dry food per day and multiply by seven for the week.

5. Purchase all items from your list. Store the items in a large plastic storage bin located in a part of your home that is most likely to survive a disaster, such as your basement or an outside shed.

6. Purchase a new supply to replace your current supply every six months to prevent foods from going bad. Use the old supply as part of your current meals.

Tips & Warnings

• Empty dry bagged foods such as flour, sugar and salt into air-tight jars.

• Include a manual can opener and disposable utensils with your one week supply. Also include matches to light fires for cooking or include items such as chafing dishes and candle warmers to heat foods.

• Double the amounts to provide two weeks worth of survival food.

• Avoid high-sodium content foods as these make you thirstier.

• Include special food items for those with allergies or medical conditions.

References

• Washington Military Department: Emergency Food Supply

Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Food Supplies