Keep Shelf Stable Meals On Hand For Emergencies

By Katrina Wheeler


No one likes to think of the worst case scenario, but it is important to prepare for it anyway. Shelf stable meals allow you peace of mind when you are faced with an emergency situation. No matter what kind of disaster you are worried about, having food on hand will ensure that you will be able to keep your family going strong even in the worst circumstances.

Food storage requires having long lasting food that will be easy to prepare. If you select the right products, you will not have to deal with switching food out every few months. Most shelf stable foods are freeze dried or canned to help them last longer. Without moisture or with the correct processing, these meals can be kept for years in your garage or basement.

It can be quite beneficial to have decent food when an emergency hits. Not only will good nutritious food keep your energy levels up, it will also boost your morale. When people are left without anything to eat, they become weak quickly, both mentally and physically. Even a candy bar can help you feel more hopeful.

Every emergency kit needs to have food in it. You will also need things like a source of clean water and shelter, but food is a huge part of survival in any kind of situation. Make sure that you have enough food to last even if you don't have heat or water. Your choice of items will depend on this.

If you have no power, it may be impossible to cook anything, particularly if it is wet out. Food will need to be eaten right out of the package. You can choose ready to eat meals (MREs) which do not require heat or liquid for preparation. A good example of this is a canned beef stew. You can find plenty of meals that can be eaten as is.

Rather than buying tins of fruit or vegetables and meat separately, try looking for complete meals. Not only are these more interesting to eat, they make it simple to get a meal ready. You can just heat or open a package and have everything you need. If you do have a way to heat water, you can have hot meals. It really helps to eat something warm in the middle of a disaster. Assume that you will not have heat and stock up on fuel and a camping stove.

Test the meals you want to buy before purchasing in bulk. You will find that some products are more appealing to you than others. Many companies offer sampler packs so you can try their different meals. Once you have chosen your favorites, you can buy more of the meals you prefer.

You will also find it helpful to have shelf stable meals along when camping. They can be kept in the car for emergencies, too. Be prepared by ensuring that you have long term food supplies ready to go in your home and vehicle. When things go badly or a disaster hits, you will be ready for it.




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