I've put together a list of the 15 best survival foods to keep on hand for emergencies. Options include Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food Supply and Ready Hour Emergency Meal Entrées, both offering high calories and long shelf life. Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef is a tasty option, while the Humanitarian Daily Ration MRE Case provides ready-to-eat meals. It's important to take into account shelf life, ease of preparation, and nutritional value when selecting your supplies. Keeping variety in mind also helps prevent palate fatigue. There's plenty more useful information to explore about stocking up effectively. When considering the best prepper foods to have on hand, it’s also important to think about dietary restrictions and preferences. For those with gluten intolerances, options like Legacy Premium Gluten Free Emergency Food are available. Additionally, including items like canned fruits and vegetables, nuts, and protein bars can add nutritional variety to your emergency food supply. By carefully selecting and storing a diverse range of long-lasting, high-calorie foods, you can ensure that you and your loved ones are adequately prepared for any unexpected situations.
Key Takeaways
- Choose options with a long shelf life, ideally between 20 to 30 years, to ensure food remains viable during emergencies.
- Opt for meals that require minimal preparation, such as those needing only boiling water, for convenience during a crisis.
- Select a variety of foods to prevent palate fatigue, ensuring meals remain enjoyable over extended periods.
- Consider the cost per serving, with options available from $1.05 to $3.60, to find budget-friendly survival food supplies.
Augason Farms 30-Day 1-Person Emergency Food Supply – QSS Certified , White
If you're looking for a reliable emergency food supply for one person, the Augason Farms 30-Day 1-Person Emergency Food Supply stands out with its QSS certification, delivering ample nutrition and a long shelf life.
This supply offers an average of 1,854 calories and 47 grams of protein daily, ensuring I can maintain my energy levels in an emergency.
Packed in a watertight pail, it contains 307 servings, making it convenient for storage.
With a shelf life of up to 25 years, I can trust it'll be ready when I need it.
At about $3.60 per day, it's cost-effective compared to other options.
I can prepare the meals easily by boiling water, making it simple even in challenging situations.
Best For: Individuals or small families seeking a reliable, long-term emergency food supply with balanced nutrition and easy preparation.
Pros:
- QSS-certified, providing over 1,800 calories and 46 grams of protein per day.
- Long shelf life of up to 25 years, ensuring readiness for emergencies.
Cons:
- Some users prefer the taste of other brands, such as Mountain House.
- Requires boiling water for meal preparation, which may be a challenge in certain situations.
Ready Hour Emergency Meal Entrées (120 Servings)
Ready Hour Emergency Meal Entrees (120 Servings) are perfect for families looking for reliable, non-perishable meals that are easy to prepare during emergencies.
These meals come in a sturdy, flood-safe container and have a remarkable 25-year shelf life.
With 22 resealable pouches inside, I can use only what I need and save the rest for later. Each meal takes about 25 to 30 minutes to prepare, needing 4.5 to 8 cups of water, depending on the dish.
While the taste is decent, I often add salt or spices to enhance it.
Priced at around $126, it's about $1.05 per serving, making it an affordable option for ensuring my family's preparedness.
Best For: Families seeking reliable, non-perishable meals for emergency preparedness or everyday use.
Pros:
- Durable packaging: Comes in a flood-safe container with resealable pouches for easy storage and transport.
- Long shelf life: Meals have a remarkable 25-year shelf life, ensuring long-term viability.
Cons:
- Bland taste: Meals may require additional seasoning to enhance flavor.
- High sodium and fat content: Some meals have elevated levels of saturated fat and sodium, which may not be suitable for frequent consumption.
Augason Farms 72-Hour 4-Person Emergency Food Storage Kit 14 lbs 7 oz
The Augason Farms 72-Hour 4-Person Emergency Food Storage Kit is an excellent choice for families seeking a reliable and nutritious food supply during emergencies, as it provides a substantial 26,440 calories in just 14 lbs 7 oz.
This kit includes 16 pouches with seven meal varieties, such as Creamy Potato Soup and Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal. Each pouch has multiple servings, making it easy to feed everyone. You just add water and cook, which is convenient during stressful situations.
The kit boasts a shelf life of up to 20 years when unopened, ensuring long-term storage.
With an impressive customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, it's a popular option for emergency preparedness and everyday meals alike.
Best For: Families and individuals seeking a reliable, long-lasting food supply for emergencies, camping, or everyday use.
Pros:
- Long shelf life: Up to 20 years when unopened, making it ideal for emergency preparedness.
- Easy preparation: Just add water and cook, providing convenience during stressful situations.
Cons:
- Protein content concerns: Some customers suggest supplementing with additional protein sources like freeze-dried meats.
- Weight: At 14 lbs 7 oz, it may be heavier than some other emergency food options, making transport less convenient.
Augason Farms Deluxe 30-Day Emergency Food Supply
For anyone looking to guarantee their emergency preparedness, the Augason Farms Deluxe 30-Day Emergency Food Supply offers an impressive array of 200 servings packed with essential calories and convenient meal options.
With over 1,200 calories per day, it totals 37,080 calories, ensuring you have enough energy during emergencies. This kit includes 11 meal varieties, like Cheesy Broccoli Rice and Buttermilk Pancakes, and comes with a handy 30-Day Meal Planner.
It's easy to prepare—just add water and cook. Packaged in a durable, watertight five-gallon pail, it's perfect for long-term storage, lasting up to 25 years.
This reliable food supply is an affordable choice, especially during sales, making it a smart investment for anyone's emergency kit.
Best For: The Augason Farms Deluxe 30-Day Emergency Food Supply is best for individuals and families looking to ensure their emergency preparedness with a convenient and calorie-dense food option.
Pros:
- Long shelf life of up to 25 years, making it ideal for long-term storage.
- Variety of meal options with 11 different varieties to choose from, catering to different tastes.
Cons:
- Lack of meat protein may require supplementation for those seeking a more balanced diet.
- Mixed reviews on taste, as many customers have not yet tested the food.
READYWISE Emergency Food Supply Bucket (120 Servings)
Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, the READYWISE Emergency Food Supply Bucket offers 120 servings of nutritious meals that guarantee you're prepared for any unexpected situation.
This kit provides a solid 13 days of sustenance, making it perfect for emergencies, camping trips, or long-term storage.
I appreciate the meal variety, as it includes 13 options like hearty soups, pasta, and rice, ensuring I won't get bored with my food.
Each meal has a 25-year shelf life, is conveniently packed in durable pouches, and only requires one cup of water to rehydrate.
Customer reviews highlight the great taste and convenience, although some note issues with packaging clarity.
Overall, it's a reliable choice for emergency preparedness.
Best For: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking reliable emergency food supplies.
Pros:
- Long shelf life of 25 years, ensuring food remains fresh for emergencies.
- Variety of meal options (13 different meals) to prevent monotony during extended use.
Cons:
- Some customers report packaging clarity issues, making it difficult to identify meals.
- Inconsistencies in product quality have been noted by a few users.
READYWISE Emergency Food Supply (72 Hours, 30 Servings)
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply is perfect for anyone seeking a reliable and compact solution for sustenance during unexpected situations. This kit provides 72 hours of food, offering 30 servings of ready-to-eat meals and drinks.
Designed for emergencies, camping, or hiking, it has a 25-year shelf life, making it a smart choice for long-term preparedness.
Preparation is simple; all you need to do is add water, which is great for quick meals. The compact packaging makes it easy to store in tight spaces.
With seven different freeze-dried options, you get a mix of hearty entrees and drinks. While it may not be gourmet, it offers peace of mind during emergencies, ensuring you're ready for whatever comes your way.
Best For: Individuals and families looking for a reliable, long-term food supply for emergencies, camping, or hiking.
Pros:
- Easy preparation by simply adding water, making it convenient for quick meals.
- Compact packaging allows for effortless storage in limited spaces.
Cons:
- Taste may not meet gourmet standards, focusing more on survival.
- Some customers have reported missing servings in their kits.
Nutrient Survival Vitamin Powdered Milk (60 Servings)
Nutrient Survival Vitamin Powdered Milk is perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious and long-lasting emergency food option, offering 21 essential nutrients in every serving.
With 13 vitamins, 7 minerals, and 6 grams of protein, it's designed to keep you healthy during tough times. This freeze-dried milk has a shelf life of up to 25 years, making it a reliable choice for your emergency supplies.
To prepare it, all you need to do is add water, and you'll have creamy, non-fat milk ready for use.
It's versatile enough for daily meals or emergency recipes like mac and cheese or homemade bread. Plus, it's soy and gluten-free, appealing to various dietary needs.
Customers rave about its taste and nutritional benefits, making it a smart addition to any survival plan.
Best For: Individuals and families looking for a nutritious, long-lasting emergency food supply that is easy to prepare and suitable for various dietary needs.
Pros:
- High in essential nutrients with 21 vitamins and minerals per serving.
- Shelf stable for up to 25 years, making it ideal for long-term storage.
Cons:
- Some users may find the price higher compared to standard powdered milk.
- Limited availability of healthcare spending eligibility for budgeting concerns.
Ready Hour Fruit & Veggie Mix Freeze-Dried Food Supply
The Ready Hour Fruit & Veggie Mix Freeze-Dried Food Supply is perfect for families looking to guarantee they've a tasty and reliable food source during emergencies or unpredictable situations.
With a 30-year shelf life, this mix includes 56 servings packed in a sturdy, flood-safe container. I appreciate the convenience of the handle for easy transport, especially during emergencies.
The freeze-dried fruits and vegetables taste great, making them suitable for everyday meals. Users often mention adding veggies to soups or snacking on the fruits.
It comes in seven resealable pouches, allowing you to take only what you need and save the rest. While some find the serving sizes a bit small, the quality and long shelf life make it a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
Best For: Families seeking a tasty and reliable food source for emergencies or unpredictable situations.
Pros:
- Long 30-year shelf life ensures preparedness for emergencies.
- Convenient resealable pouches allow for portion control and easy storage.
Cons:
- Some customers find the serving sizes of 1/4 cup insufficient for the price.
- The overall cost may be considered high relative to the amount provided.
READYWISE Emergency Food Supply (124 Servings, 25-Year Shelf Life)
For families looking to guarantee their preparedness during unforeseen disasters, the ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply offers a reliable solution with 124 servings and an impressive 25-year shelf life.
This lightweight and compact bucket is designed for emergencies, ensuring essential nutrition when it's needed most. The meals require just water and 15 minutes to prepare, making them easy to use in urgent situations.
However, it's crucial to recognize that the servings include drinks and desserts, so they don't all equate to full meals.
Priced around £120, it's a good value for long-term storage, but some users find the taste and quality lacking compared to higher-end brands.
Overall, it's a practical choice for emergency preparedness.
Best For: Families looking for a reliable and compact emergency food supply to ensure nutrition during unforeseen disasters.
Pros:
- Easy to prepare with just water and 15 minutes of cooking time.
- Long shelf life of 25 years, ideal for long-term storage.
Cons:
- Taste and quality may be lacking compared to higher-end brands.
- Servings include drinks and desserts, which do not equate to full meals.
4Patriots 72-Hour Survival Food Kit
Designed for families and individuals preparing for unexpected emergencies, the 4Patriots 72-Hour Survival Food Kit offers a convenient and long-lasting food solution.
This kit contains 20 servings of freeze-dried meals, providing around 4,800 calories, or about 1,600 calories a day. The meals include options like Grammy's Sweet Oatmeal and America's Finest Mac & Cheese, making it easy to prepare food in just 15 minutes by adding boiling water.
The triple-layer Mylar packaging guarantees the food stays fresh and protected from air, light, and moisture for up to 25 years.
However, I've noticed some reports of damaged packaging and misleading serving counts, so it's important to check the contents thoroughly upon arrival.
Best For: The 4Patriots 72-Hour Survival Food Kit is best for individuals and families looking to prepare for emergencies with a convenient and long-lasting meal solution.
Pros:
- Long Shelf Life: Food can last up to 25 years when stored properly.
- Easy Preparation: Meals can be ready in just 15 minutes with boiling water.
Cons:
- Packaging Issues: Reports of damaged packaging and misleading serving counts.
- Rationing Difficulties: Meals are not individually wrapped, making portion control challenging in emergencies.
SOS Food Labs Emergency 3600 Calorie Food Bar (3 Day/72 Hour Package)
Ideal for those seeking reliable sustenance during short-term emergencies, the SOS Food Labs Emergency 3600 Calorie Food Bar provides a convenient and energy-dense solution. This package contains nine individually wrapped bars, totaling 3600 calories, offering 410 calories per bar. Each bar packs 6 grams of protein, ensuring a decent energy boost when you need it most. With a shelf life of five years, it's a smart addition to any emergency kit.
The bars are designed for easy access, allowing me to unwrap them with one hand. They generally taste like peanut butter cookies or shortbread, making them more enjoyable than other emergency rations.
Overall, I find the SOS Food Labs bars an excellent choice for short-term needs during emergencies.
Best For: Individuals preparing for short-term emergencies who need a reliable and energy-dense food source.
Pros:
- Convenient packaging with individually wrapped bars for easy access.
- High energy content with 3600 calories total, providing sufficient sustenance for three days.
Cons:
- Limited nutritional value as they are not designed for long-term sustenance.
- Sweet flavor may not appeal to everyone and could be overwhelming for some.
Augason Farms Lunch and Dinner Variety Pail Emergency Food Supply
The Augason Farms Lunch and Dinner Variety Pail is a smart choice for anyone looking to guarantee their emergency food supply is both versatile and easy to prepare.
This 4-gallon watertight pail contains 11 different meals, including soups and even desserts, offering a total of 92 servings packed with 21,170 calories and 557 grams of protein.
It has a shelf life ranging from 10 to 30 years, making it a long-lasting option for any emergency.
The meals are quick to prepare, needing just boiling water, though some can take longer to rehydrate.
While the average rating is an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars, it's wise to reflect on portion sizes and sodium levels, especially for larger families.
Best For: Those seeking a reliable and versatile emergency food supply for disaster preparedness, camping, or backcountry use.
Pros:
- Easy to prepare with just boiling water and quick cooking times.
- Long shelf life ranging from 10 to 30 years, ensuring durability for emergencies.
Cons:
- Some users find portion sizes insufficient for larger families.
- Meals may be high in sodium and carbohydrates, which could be a concern for some.
Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef Freeze Dried Food
For outdoor enthusiasts and emergency preppers, Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef offers a delicious and convenient meal solution that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
This freeze-dried meal features spicy chili sauce, real beef, macaroni noodles, onions, and beans, making it a hearty option. The #10 can contains ten servings, which is perfect for group camping trips or emergency food storage.
I love that it has a 30-year shelf life, ensuring it stays fresh for a long time.
Preparing it's a breeze; just add hot water and wait 8-10 minutes.
Plus, it's lightweight and made without preservatives or artificial flavors, making it a great choice for anyone looking to stock up on survival foods.
Best For: Mountain House Chili Mac with Beef is best for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and emergency preppers seeking a convenient and tasty meal option.
Pros:
- Long shelf life of 30 years, ideal for emergency food storage.
- Quick and easy preparation, requiring only hot water for a satisfying meal in 8-10 minutes.
Cons:
- Contains wheat, making it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Requires water for preparation, which may not be readily available in all situations.
Humanitarian Daily Ration MRE Case – 10 Pack Emergency Rations
Designed specifically for those seeking nutritious, vegetarian meals in emergency situations, the Humanitarian Daily Ration MRE Case offers 10 hearty options that guarantee you're well-fed when it matters most.
Each case contains 10 Meals-Ready-to-Eat, with two servings of five different meal varieties. The meals include an entree, side dishes, seasoning packets, utensils, and a napkin, averaging about 2200 calories each for ideal nutrition and endurance.
With a shelf life of five years, these rations are perfect for storing in a cool, dry place.
They're versatile for survival scenarios, camping trips, and home emergency kits.
While the meals taste great, some users suggest adding extra flavoring for picky eaters.
Overall, they're a solid choice for emergency preparedness.
Best For: Individuals seeking nutritious, vegetarian emergency meals for outdoor activities or disaster preparedness.
Pros:
- High nutritional value: Each meal provides approximately 2200 calories, ensuring energy and endurance.
- Long shelf life: With a five-year shelf life, these rations are ideal for long-term storage.
Cons:
- Flavor limitations: Some users suggest meals may require additional flavoring for picky eaters.
- Limited drink options: Lacks beverages like coffee or tea, which could enhance the meal experience.
Augason Farms Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Fruit Variety Pail
Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, the Augason Farms Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Fruit Variety Pail packs a delicious assortment of fruits with a remarkable shelf life.
Inside, you'll find strawberries, apples, bananas, raspberries, and blueberries, all individually packaged in heavy-duty, air-tight pouches. This pail not only offers great taste but also a shelf life of up to 25 years when stored properly.
I love its versatility; it's perfect for emergency food storage, camping trips, or simply enjoying as a crunchy snack.
The included recipe booklet and Spiff-e-Whip Dessert Topping make it even more appealing. Just remember to store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality.
Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone looking to be prepared.
Best For: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to prepare for emergencies with a long-lasting and versatile fruit option.
Pros:
- Long shelf life of up to 25 years when stored properly, making it ideal for emergency preparedness.
- Versatile usage; perfect for smoothies, snacks, or as part of a meal.
Cons:
- Some customers have reported packaging issues, such as open topping packages.
- Higher pricing compared to other snack options may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Survival Food
When I choose survival food, I think about several key factors.
First, I assess the nutritional value to guarantee I'm getting enough calories and nutrients.
Then, I look at the shelf life, preparation ease, packaging durability, and flavor variety to make certain the food will be practical and enjoyable during an emergency.
Nutritional Value Assessment
Evaluating the nutritional value of survival food requires careful consideration of calorie count, protein content, and overall balance of macronutrients. I make certain to aim for a minimum of 1,800 calories and 40 grams of protein per person per day. This helps meet basic energy and dietary needs during emergencies.
I also look for foods that offer a variety of meal options and flavors, which can greatly enhance palatability and keep morale high. It's important to maintain a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats for sustained energy.
When I assess survival food, I check for essential vitamins and minerals as well. These nutrients support overall health, especially when regular dietary intake may be disrupted.
I pay attention to sodium levels too, as high sodium content can be risky for those with health concerns. By keeping these factors in mind, I make sure that the survival food I choose will provide adequate nutrition and support well-being during challenging times.
This way, I can be better prepared for any situation that might arise.
Shelf Life Considerations
Choosing survival food involves prioritizing items with a long shelf life, ideally ranging from 20 to 30 years, to guarantee they remain safe and nutritious during emergencies.
I've found that freeze-dried or dehydrated foods usually last longer than regular canned goods, often up to 25 years without a significant loss in quality. This makes them a smart choice for my food supply.
When selecting these products, I always check the packaging. It should protect against air, moisture, and light, as these elements can quickly reduce the shelf life of survival foods.
I store my supplies in a cool, dry, and dark place, ideally between 55°F and 70°F, to maximize their longevity.
It's also important to remember that once I open any survival food item, its shelf life decreases. I make sure to consume or properly repackage opened items to help extend their usability.
By considering these factors, I can ascertain that my survival food remains viable when I need it most, providing peace of mind during uncertain times.
Proper planning and awareness can make a significant difference in emergency preparedness.
Preparation Ease
Considering shelf life is important, but preparation ease also plays a key role in selecting survival food that I can quickly and efficiently use during emergencies. I want foods that require minimal effort to prepare, especially when time is of the essence. Many survival foods simply need boiling water, making them convenient and fast to cook in high-pressure situations.
Some meals do take longer to rehydrate, with cooking times ranging from 8 to 30 minutes, so I keep that in mind when planning my emergency meals. I also appreciate products packaged in resealable pouches. This allows me to prepare only what I need at the moment and save the rest for later, reducing waste.
Lightweight and compact meals are essential for easy transport and storage, especially during outdoor activities or emergencies. The simplicity of preparation is critical, too, as I often have limited cooking equipment and water access in these situations.
In short, I prioritize survival foods that aren't just shelf-stable but also quick and easy to prepare, ensuring that I can focus on what truly matters during an emergency.
Packaging Durability
When I select survival food, I focus on packaging durability to guarantee my supplies stay safe and edible for the long haul.
The right packaging protects food from air, moisture, and light, all of which can degrade quality over time. I look for high-quality materials, like triple-layer Mylar or vacuum-sealed bags, because they can extend shelf life up to 25 years or more.
Watertight containers are another vital feature. They keep my food safe from water damage, especially important during emergencies where flooding might happen. Resealable pouches are also a great option since they let me open only what I need. This minimizes exposure to air, helping the remaining food stay fresh longer.
I also consider proper storage conditions. Keeping my survival food in a cool, dry environment enhances the packaging's durability and the food's longevity.
Flavor and Variety
How can I guarantee my survival food not only lasts but also satisfies my taste buds during emergencies?
To start, flavor variety is essential. I want to include a mix of entrees, soups, and desserts in my stockpile. This variety helps prevent palate fatigue, especially if I'm relying on these meals for an extended time. Some survival food kits offer freeze-dried meals that keep the original flavor and texture of real food, making them more enjoyable.
I also need to think about customization. Many survival food options come with bland meals, but I can enhance their flavor with additional seasonings or sauces. This flexibility allows me to tailor meals to my preferences, which can make a significant difference during tough times.
Customer feedback often emphasizes the importance of taste. I've found that certain brands stand out due to their superior flavor profiles, and I'll prioritize those in my selection.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Evaluating cost-effectiveness is essential for choosing survival food that fits my budget while guaranteeing I've enough sustenance for emergencies.
First, I look at the cost per serving. Some options range from $1.05 to $3.60 daily, so comparing prices helps me find budget-friendly choices.
Next, I consider the shelf life of the products. Foods that last 20 to 30 years save me money by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Bulk purchasing is another strategy I use to lower costs. Buying staples like rice and beans in larger quantities often proves more economical than pre-packaged meals.
I also pay attention to nutritional value; selecting options with high calories and protein content guarantees I get more sustenance for each dollar I spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do These Survival Foods Typically Last?
I've found that survival foods generally last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on storage conditions and packaging. I always check expiration dates to guarantee I'm prepared for any situation.
Are These Foods Suitable for Children and Special Dietary Needs?
I always consider children's preferences and special dietary needs when choosing foods. It's essential to select options that are nutritious, allergen-free, and appealing to them, ensuring everyone in my family can enjoy the meals.
Can I Cook These Meals Without Electricity?
I can definitely cook these meals without electricity! I use a camping stove or fire pit, and I've got some great recipes that work perfectly with just my outdoor setup. It's simple and effective!
What Is the Best Way to Store These Food Supplies?
I've found that using airtight containers and vacuum sealing really helps preserve food. I store them in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life, ensuring I'm always prepared for anything that comes my way.
How Do I Know if the Food Is Safe to Eat?
They say, "When in doubt, throw it out." I check food for off smells, discoloration, and expiration dates. If anything seems off, I trust my instincts and don't risk my health. Safety's my priority!
Conclusion
In summary, stocking up on survival foods is a smart move for anyone wanting to be prepared.
I know some might think it's unnecessary, but emergencies can happen anytime, and having a reliable food supply guarantees you and your family can stay nourished.
By choosing a variety of options, you'll cover different dietary needs and preferences.
It's about being ready, so take the time to invest in your safety and well-being.
