When it comes to emergency preparedness, having a well-stocked food supply is essential. Peanut butter is a great source of energy, packed with healthy fats and proteins. Choose multi-grain cereals that are individually packaged and have an expiration date of at least 8 to 10 months. The Department of Homeland Security recommends having a basic emergency supply kit and an emergency food supply kit with enough food and water to last 3 days.
The amount of food to be stored will depend on the number of household members, their preferences, special health conditions, the ability to use food in an emergency, and the storage space available. Staple food packages should be stored in airtight plastic food storage containers, glass jars with screw lids, or non-rusting metal cans. Zip-lock plastic bags can be used for storing food or freezing food. Consider a “coupon mentality” when preparing your emergency food supply kit.
The more higher-quality food you eat and the less, the better. Mishandling fresh food can also change the safe storage time of food, regardless of packaging dates. Discard homemade canned foods or foods in glass jars, open or unclosed, that have been soiled by flood waters. A good time to start your emergency food supply kit is during the hurricane sales tax holiday.