Disaster Food Supply: What to Stock Up On Before a Hurricane

Introduction

Natural disasters can happen anytime and anywhere, and the best we can do is to prepare for them as much as possible. Hurricanes are one of the most devastating natural calamities, which cause significant damage to property and life. When preparing for a hurricane, one of the essential things to consider is having an adequate food supply. The availability of food may become limited after the storm due to flooding and power outages, so it's best to stock up on non-perishable and easily prepared foods beforehand.

Non-Perishable Foods

Canned Goods

Canned goods are an excellent choice for disaster food supply because they have a long shelf life and are easy to prepare. They can be eaten straight from the can or mixed with other ingredients to create a meal. Some examples of canned goods that you should stock up on before a hurricane are:

• Vegetables such as corn, peas, and green beans
• Fruits such as pineapple, peaches, and pears
• Protein sources such as tuna, chicken, and spam
• Stews and soups

Dried Foods

Dried foods are also a good option when it comes to non-perishable foods because they are lightweight, easy to store, and have a long shelf life. Some examples of dried foods that are ideal for disaster food supply are:

• Rice and pasta
• Dried fruits
• Beans
• Nuts and seeds
• Cereals and granola bars

Baby Food

If you have a baby at home, it's essential to stock up on baby food, formula, and diapers. Babies have specific dietary needs that require proper nutrition, which is necessary for their growth and development. Make sure you have enough supplies of their favorite formula and baby food before the hurricane hits.

Perishable Foods

Frozen Foods

If you have a generator or access to ice, it's possible to store some perishable food items in a freezer. Consider purchasing frozen fruits, vegetables, and meat before the hurricane hits. These can be eaten after the storm, provided they remain frozen during the power outage.

Bread and Bakery Items

Bread and bakery items like bagels, tortillas, and crackers have a moderate shelf life and can be stored for several weeks. They can be used for sandwiches or as snacks. Additionally, peanut butter or nutella can also be used as a spread on these items.

Refrigerated Items

If the power goes out, refrigerated items will only last a few hours. Consider purchasing drinks like sports drinks or juice boxes instead of milk, which has a shorter shelf life. Eggs can also be stored for a short period without refrigeration.

Water Supply

Along with food, clean drinking water is essential for survival during a hurricane. It's recommended to stock up on at least one gallon of water per day per person. This should include water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes. Store your water in food-grade containers in a cool, dark place away from any chemicals or gasoline. You can also use purification tablets or filtration systems for additional safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much food should I stock up on before a hurricane?

  It's recommended to have at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food per person.

• Can I still eat my food after the power goes out?

  If the food has been stored properly and remained cool, it should be safe to eat. Use a thermometer to ensure that perishable foods have not reached above 40°F.

• How long does canned food last?

  Canned food can last several years, but it's essential to check the expiration dates and discard any cans that are dented, leaking, or bulging.

• What if I don't have access to non-perishable food items?

  If you don't have access to non-perishable food items, consider purchasing a cooler and filling it with ice. You can store perishable food items in the cooler until the power is restored.

• Can I use bottled water instead of tap water during a hurricane?

  Bottled water is an excellent substitute for tap water during a hurricane. Make sure to have an adequate supply for drinking and cooking purposes.

Conclusion

Disaster food supply is an essential part of any hurricane preparedness plan. It's important to have a sufficient amount of non-perishable and easily prepared foods that can last for at least three days per person. It's also important to store your food in a cool, dry place away from any chemicals or gasoline. Additionally, clean drinking water is critical for survival during and after a hurricane. Remember to stay safe and evacuate if necessary.

By following these guidelines and recommendations, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for any disaster that may come your way. Don't forget to check the expiration dates of your supplies and rotate them out as needed.

Additional Resources

• Ready.gov - Food Supply
• CDC - Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
• FEMA - Preparing for a Hurricane

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