How much food do you need?
For a 72-hour emergency, store non-perishable, no-cook food for your household. Plan a realistic amount based on what your family actually eats. This keeps everyone nourished until help arrives or utilities are restored.
A basic approach: store shelf-stable snacks, canned meals, energy bars, and crackers. Having something is better than nothing.
Best foods to store
Choose foods that require no cooking (in case power is out):
- Canned foods: soups, beans, vegetables, fruit (bring a manual can opener)
- Peanut butter and jam: high calories, long shelf life, no cooking
- Nuts and granola: filling, stable for months
- Crackers, bread, cereal: store in waterproof containers; check expiry dates
- Energy bars, protein bars: concentrated calories, portable
- Powdered milk: for beverages and cooking if power returns
- High-moisture foods (applesauce, fruit cups): good for hydration
- Cooking oils: calorie-dense, long shelf life
If the power goes out
Fridge safety: An unopened fridge keeps food safe for about 4 hours. A full freezer keeps food safe for 48 hours if unopened. Once opened, use food within 2 hours.
Throw out: Any food left at room temperature for 2 hours or more.
Safe options: Canned goods, shelf-stable snacks, dry goods, and foods that have been boiled.
Rotation and expiry
- Check canned goods and shelf-stable foods regularly.
- Use the oldest items first (first in, first out).
- Discard anything past its best-before date.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
For people with allergies or dietary needs
- Set aside foods for each household member.
- Label clearly.
- Include any required supplements or feeding equipment.
Important
If local officials declare a food safety emergency (contamination, boil-water advisory), follow their guidance on which foods and water are safe. This emergency kit is for situations where utilities are disrupted but food safety is not compromised.