Preparing for emergencies with a well-stocked food supply makes good sense, yet choosing the best emergency food company can be overwhelming.
This comparison of top-rated brands breaks down the key factors - nutrition, taste, shelf life, and value - to help you confidently select an emergency food kit to meet your family's needs.
You'll discover unbiased insights on leading providers like ReadyWise, Mountain House, and Augason Farms, assessing their meal options on completeness, calorie count, expiration dates, palatability, and cost-effectiveness.
Introduction to Emergency Food Supply Companies
This article provides an unbiased comparison of the top emergency food supply companies in 2023. We analyze key factors like nutritional value, taste, shelf life and cost to determine the best options for disaster preparedness.
Understanding the Importance of Emergency Preparedness Food
Having a reliable emergency food supply is critical for unexpected situations like natural disasters or power outages. Food is one of the most vital preparedness essentials, yet often overlooked. When selecting an emergency food supply company, key criteria include shelf life, nutritional content, taste, and cost. The best kits have meals with long shelf lives, high-calorie rations to sustain energy, and good flavor to make meals enjoyable. Investing in good emergency food ensures your family is cared for when crisis strikes.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Emergency Food Kits
When comparing emergency food supply companies, focus on:
- Shelf Life - The longer the shelf life, the better. Look for meals with 20-25 year shelf lives.
- Nutritional Content - Seek food with complete, balanced nutrition to maintain health.
- Taste - Food should taste decent to enjoy meals if relying on it.
- Cost - Compare price per meal across kits to find the best value.
- Ease of Preparation - Opt for pre-made meals you just heat and eat.
Emergency Food Supply Reviews: Trustworthy Sources
Vet a company thoroughly before buying food kits. Read reviews on sites like TrustPilot and Reddit's r/preppers forum to gauge quality and reliability. Sort reviews by recent and critical to spot any changes. Favor companies with transparency and frequent quality testing.
The Role of a 72-Hour Emergency Food Kit in Disaster Readiness
A 72-hour emergency food kit with ready-to-eat meals gives you a buffer during the initial chaos of a disaster. The first 72 hours are critical, with little time to spare. Having food on hand means one less thing to worry about until longer-term support arrives. These short-term kits provide around 1,200-2,400 calories per day. Popular picks are Mountain House and SOS emergency rations.
Long-Term Food Storage Solutions for Sustained Preparedness
For a 25 year emergency food supply, brands like Augason Farms and Wise Foods offer pails and buckets with freeze-dried meals. These kits provide a diverse selection of breakfasts, entrees, fruits, vegetables, and snacks. With proper storage, these foods can nourish a family for months. Long-term solutions give peace of mind that you have food stocked if a disaster situation persists. Compare nutritional content and taste before investing in a large supply.
What is the best food supply for emergency?
When building an emergency food supply, it's important to focus on shelf-stable foods that provide nutrition and calories. Some top options include:
Canned and Dried Goods
Canned fruits, vegetables, beans, meats, and fish are convenient and last a long time. Opt for low-sodium versions when possible. Other good choices are dried fruits, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. These provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Boxed and Bottled Items
Shelf-stable milk, juices, broths, and soups are handy for an emergency stash. Look for whole grain crackers, cereal, and pasta sides that have long shelf lives. Nut butters, jellies, honey, and maple syrup also store well.
Freeze-Dried and Dehydrated Foods
Meals ready-to-eat (MREs) are convenient for emergencies. Companies like Mountain House and Augason Farms offer freeze-dried foods and meal kits with 10+ year shelf lives. These make preparing hot meals easy when utilities are out.
The key is stocking nutrient-dense foods you already eat, then rotating and replenishing items as you go. Store emergency food in a cool, dark place and check expiration dates once a year. With the right supplies, you can be eating well no matter the situation.
What are the best survival foods to buy?
When building an emergency food supply, it's important to have nutrient-dense foods with a long shelf life. Some of the best survival foods to keep in your pantry include:
- Peanut butter - High in protein, fats, and calories. Choose natural peanut butter which requires no refrigeration.
- Whole-wheat crackers - Provide carbohydrates and fiber. Look for low-sodium options. Pair with peanut butter for protein.
- Nuts and trail mixes - Great sources of protein, healthy fats, and calories. Prioritize calorie-dense nuts like almonds, cashews, and macadamia nuts.
- Cereal - Opt for whole grain cereals, which offer B vitamins, fiber, and iron. Store in airtight containers to preserve freshness.
- Granola and protein bars - Provide a quick boost of carbohydrates and protein. Select bars with limited ingredients and no hydrogenated oils.
- Dried fruits - Offer antioxidants and natural sugar. Raisins, apricots, apples, cranberries, and blueberries have a long shelf life.
- Canned meats - Including tuna, salmon, chicken, and turkey. Canned meats provide protein and are safe at room temperature for years.
- Canned vegetables - Such as carrots, green beans, and peas. Choose low-sodium options with no added sugars or preservatives.
Prioritize non-perishable, nutrient-dense foods to build a well-rounded emergency food supply that meets your dietary needs. Store foods properly and rotate items to maximize freshness and shelf life.
Is it worth buying emergency food?
Emergency food kits can provide critical sustenance when disasters or emergencies hit. With shelf lives up to 30 years, they ensure you have reliable access to nutrition if stores close or supply chains get disrupted. But are they really worth buying? Here are some key benefits to consider:
Reliability
Emergency food from leading brands is rigorously tested to confirm its long shelf life. For example, Augason Farms certifies their products will maintain flavor, nutrition and viability for over two decades in storage. You can truly depend on these kits in an emergency.
Nutrition
Many kits are designed by nutritionists to provide balanced macronutrients, vitamins and minerals. This nourishes your body and mind during high-stress scenarios. For example, Mountain House buckets provide over 2,000 calories per day.
Cost Savings
Buying bulk emergency supplies upfront saves money over time compared to last-minute purchases. Kits also eliminate waste from perishable foods going bad. For example, the S.O.S. Rations 72-hour kit for one person costs around $20. That's affordable protection.
Customization
Many companies let you build customized kits to meet your household’s unique needs. You can choose unique entrees, tailor portion sizes, include produce and snacks, and account for allergies or diets like gluten-free.
While an emergency likely won't happen, being prepared with shelf-stable foods brings peace of mind. And if disaster does strike, you'll be set with reliable nutrition to weather the storm. For most households, that insurance is well worth the investment.
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Where is the best place to store emergency food?
The ideal location for storing emergency food is a cool, dry, and dark basement where temperatures remain stable. Basements provide excellent insulation from extreme temperatures, helping extend the shelf life of stored food.
Here are some examples of basement food storage solutions used by real preppers:
The Johnsons' Basement Pantry
The Johnson family converted an unfinished part of their basement into a large pantry for long-term food storage. They installed sturdy shelving units and use airtight plastic bins to store bulk items like rice, beans, pasta, and freeze-dried entrees. The constant 60°F temperature keeps food fresh for decades. They also store water barrels and backup power supplies in this basement area.
The Williams' Root Cellar
The Williams dug a root cellar under their basement foundation to take advantage of the natural cooling of the earth. The dirt walls and floor regulate humidity levels, allowing them to store sacks of wheat berries, dried veggies, and canned goods. The root cellar maintains a 40 – 50°F temperature all year round without any electricity required. They simply open the wooden cellar doors to access their stockpile.
The Thompsons' Basement Storm Shelter
The Thompsons reinforced one corner of their basement with concrete blocks to create a storm shelter. It doubles as secure storage for their #1 best emergency food supply company products like 60-serving freeze dried meal kits and 5-gallon jugs of water. The food and water would last their family of four for about three months. Having their stockpile in the basement storm shelter allows them quick access even during dangerous weather events.
Top-Rated Emergency Food Supply Companies of 2023
Based on extensive research and criteria above, these emergency food supply companies provide the best options for disaster preparedness in 2023.
ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply: A Comprehensive Review
ReadyWise offers a wide variety of emergency food kits to meet different needs, with meals ranging from freeze-dried entrees to shakes, cereals, and more. Their food kits have a 25-year shelf life, providing long-term preparedness peace of mind. Customers consistently rate ReadyWise highly for taste and easy preparation methods for their meals. ReadyWise also offers bundle deals for affordable bulk ordering. Overall, ReadyWise is a top contender for best emergency food supply thanks to their product variety, long shelf life, and great customer satisfaction.
The Mountain House Essential Bucket: A Closer Look
The Mountain House Essential Bucket provides over 20 servings of tasty, nutritious meals for emergency preparedness. Their freeze-dried meals retain 98% of their nutritional value over their 30-year shelf life. Flavors like beef stroganoff, chicken teriyaki, and more provide comfort food variety. This kit is highly rated as one of the best survival food kits 2023 for its great taste and easy transport with the included bucket.
Augason Farms Emergency Supply Food Kit: Budget Meets Quality
For those seeking an affordable emergency food kit without sacrificing too much on quality, Augason Farms hits a nice balance. Their 30-day food kit contains over 37,000 calories and includes basics like rice, beans, pasta, and more. While not as tasty as some competitors, their meals provide good nutritional value at a budget-friendly price point. As an established emergency food supply company, Augason Farms provides another quality option for disaster readiness meals.
Survive2Thrive Vegetarian Preparedness Pail: Plant-Based Options
Survive2Thrive offers vegetarian and vegan emergency food supply options, making them a unique choice in the market. Their food tastes better than typical plant-based survival rations. With over 20 vegetarian servings packed with protein, fruits, vegetables, and more, this pail provides healthy meatless meals for short-term emergencies. For those seeking vegetarian or vegan friendly choices, Survive2Thrive is a compelling option among emergency food supply companies.
Good To-Go Emergency Food Kit: For the Gourmet Survivalist
Good To-Go provides gourmet quality dehydrated and freeze-dried meals, for the survivalist who doesn't want to sacrifice too much on taste. While more expensive than other options, these kits offer restaurant-quality dishes like pad thai, boeuf bourguignon, and more. With an industry-leading 5-year taste guarantee, Good To-Go makes a strong case for best emergency food supply company if you have the budget for it.
S.O.S. Rations Emergency Food Bars: High-Calorie Survival Rations
S.O.S. Rations provide an alternative emergency food supply option with their durable food bars. Easy to store and transport, these compact rations provide needed calories and nutrients in an ultra portable form. With over 9,000 calories per pack, they offer an efficient survival food option focused purely on energetic and nutritional needs rather than taste and comfort. While bland, they pack calories and macros in a convenient bar for short-term emergency rations.
Choosing the Best Emergency Food Supply Company
When evaluating emergency food supply companies, focus on a few key factors to determine if their products are a good fit for your family's needs:
Complete Nutrition in Emergency Food Kits
Emergency food kits should contain a balance of nutrients to support health. Look for:
- Carbohydrates for energy
- Proteins for muscle maintenance
- Healthy fats
- Vitamins and minerals
Well-rounded nutrition keeps you energized and supports immune function during stressful situations when your body is more vulnerable.
High-Calorie Counts for Sustained Energy
High-calorie rations, around 400-500 calories per serving, help maintain energy levels when activity is limited and access to food is restricted. Getting sufficient calories from nutrient-dense foods can prevent muscle loss and keep your mind sharp.
Disaster Readiness Meals with Long Shelf Life
Look for emergency food with a long shelf life, ideally 25 years or more. Disaster readiness meals stored for the long-term must retain nutrients and palatability. Consider ingredients, packaging, and storage guidelines when estimating shelf life.
Taste and Palatability: A Key Factor in Emergency Food Selection
No one wants to eat bland or bad-tasting food, especially under stress. Look for positive reviews on the palatability of freeze-dried or dehydrated options. Also consider personal preferences - some fare better with simple flavors while others prefer more variety.
Cost-Effectiveness and Value in Prepper Food Supplies
Compare emergency food bundles to find deals on staples like grains, beans, freeze-dried produce and meats. Calculate costs per meal or per calorie. Consider mixing DIY food storage with some ready-to-eat meals for convenience. Finding the best value ensures you get quality food at affordable prices.
When selecting an emergency food supply company, weigh all these factors against your family’s budget and needs. Having nutritious foods that you enjoy eating makes a big difference in an emergency situation.
Storage and Maintenance of Your Emergency Food Supply
Proper storage extends shelf life and prevents waste. Follow best practices for containers, locations, temperature and moisture control.
Best Practices for Long-Term Food Storage
When storing emergency food supplies for the long term, it's important to follow best practices to maximize shelf life and maintain quality over time. Here are some key guidelines:
- Store food in airtight, food-grade plastic buckets or Mylar bags. This prevents oxygen and moisture from getting in, which can cause spoilage. Mylar bags also block light exposure.
- Use oxygen absorbers in buckets/bags. These help remove oxygen from sealed containers, further preventing spoilage.
- Store food in a cool, dark, and dry location. Temperature fluctuations and light accelerate food degradation. A basement, closet, or basement are good options.
- Keep storage area clean to prevent pest infestations. Inspect regularly for signs of insects or rodents. Set traps if needed.
- Write packing/expiration dates clearly on containers with permanent marker for easy rotation.
Following proper long-term food storage methods ensures your emergency food supply company sourced survival food lasts as long as possible when you need it.
Water Filter Integration in Emergency Kits
Having access to clean water during an emergency is critical. A reliable water filter should be included in any well-rounded emergency supply kit. Key reasons:
- Removes bacteria, parasites, microplastics and improves taste
- Allows use of questionable water sources in a crisis
- Compact filters available for bug out bags and easy portability
- Makes stored water last longer, requiring less to be stockpiled
- Brands like Sawyer and LifeStraw make quality filters for prepper needs
Choose a filter designed specifically for emergency preparedness and survival situations to best meet your off-grid purification needs.
Temperature and Humidity Control for Food Preservation
To maximize shelf life of emergency food rations, proper temperature and humidity levels must be maintained in storage:
- Ideal temperature is 40-60°F - prevents microbial growth but avoids freezing
- Use coolers, climate-controlled rooms or underground caches
- Ideal humidity is 60-70% RH - prevents food from drying out
- Use moisture absorbers/emitters to control humidity
- Monitor conditions with a thermometer/hygrometer
Storing survival food in sub-optimal temperature/humidity can accelerate spoilage and compromise nutritional integrity. Monitor and adjust storage conditions regularly.
Organizing and Rotating Your Survival Food Supply
To avoid wasting expired food, organize supplies for easy inventory and rotate items to maintain freshness:
- Categorize foods by type for quick access in an emergency
- Label containers with expiration/pack dates
- Follow FIFO (first-in, first-out) when restocking
- Inspect and consume foods before they expire
- Replace expired items with fresh supplies
- Track inventory levels and needs via spreadsheet
Proper organization and rotation ensures your emergency food storage stays intact and up-to-date when disaster strikes.
Protecting Your Supplies from Pests and Contaminants
Your survival food reserves can be threatened by insects, rodents, mold and other contaminants. Some tips for protection:
- Use airtight containers designed to be pest-proof
- Inspect regularly for signs of infestation
- Set traps, use pest deterrents if needed
- Ensure storage area has no water leaks or moisture
- Sanitize storage location regularly
- Ensure food grade packaging before long-term storage
Taking proactive precautions keeps your emergency provisions safe from elements that can render them unusable. Maintain pristine condition with vigilance.
Conclusion: Securing the Best Emergency Food Supply
Preparing with emergency food delivers peace of mind. Top brands like ReadyWise, Mountain House, and Augason Farms provide quality solutions that withstand the test of time. By comparing options using key metrics like nutritional value, shelf life, taste, and cost, you can assemble supplies to support your family through various disasters.
Final Recommendations for Emergency Food Preparedness
When selecting an emergency food supply company, prioritize taste, nutritional balance, and reliable shelf life. Mountain House meals rate well across these categories, while also being easy to prepare. Augason Farms offers very affordable bulk ingredients with a 30 year shelf life. ReadyWise provides grab-and-go entrees and full meal kits tailored for emergencies. Compile a diverse stockpile from highly-rated brands to meet your household's unique needs.
Revisit your stock every 6 months. Replace items close to expiration, evaluate any changes to your family's needs, and address gaps in your supplies. An up-to-date, balanced stockpile brings confidence to handle unpredictable events.
The Importance of Regularly Reviewing and Updating Your Emergency Food Stock
As time passes, you may overlook items in your emergency stock that have gone stale or no longer meet your family’s needs. Set reminders to take inventory every 6 months. Inspect expiration dates, checking the taste and texture of some products. Ensure you have sufficient calories and nutrition variety for each person. Address any gaps, especially for growing children, dietary restrictions, or allergies. Rotate older food into regular meals and replace it with fresh stocks. Keeping an organized, up-to-date supply avoids wasting money on expired, unnecessary items. Reviewing every 6 months provides assurance you can nourish your family when unpredictable disasters strike.
