Food

When a disaster occurs, you might not have access to food, water, and electricity for days, or even weeks. Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for your family. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation, or cooking and little or no water. If you must heat food, pack a can of Sterno. Select food items that are compact and lightweight. Avoid salty foods that will make you thirsty. Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals, and canned foods with high liquid content.

• Store food items that are familiar, rather than buying special emergency food. Consider any dietary restrictions and preferences you may have.
• Ideal foods are: Shelf-stable (no refrigeration required), low in salt, and do not require cooking (e.g. canned fruit, vegetables, peanut butter, jam, low-salt crackers, cookies, cereals, nuts, dried fruit, protein or fruit bars, canned soup or meats, canned juices, and non-fat dry milk).
• Mark a rotation date on any food container that does not already have an expiration date on the package.
• Include baby food and formula or other diet items for infants or seniors.
• Store the food in airtight, pest-resistant containers in a cool, dark place.
• Most canned foods can safely be stored for at least 18 months. Low-acid foods like meat products, fruits, or vegetables will normally last at least 2 years. Use dry products, like boxed cereal, crackers, cookies, dried milk, or dried fruit within six months.
• After a power outage, refrigerated food will stay cold longer if you keep the door closed. Food should generally be consumed within 4 hours. Food in the freezer will normally remain safe for 2 days.