Survival Food and Supplies Checklist

When crisis strikes, having an emergency food supply is crucial for survival.

This comprehensive checklist outlines the essential foods and supplies to stockpile so your family is prepared for any emergency situation or disruption.

You'll learn the top 10 survival foods with the longest shelf lives, how to calculate the right quantity for your household, considerations for dietary restrictions, and innovative storage solutions to keep your stockpile organized and accessible when you need it most.

Introduction to Survival Food and Supplies Checklists

Having a comprehensive survival food and supplies checklist is critical for emergency preparedness. When a disaster strikes, you want to already have the essentials on hand to weather the storm. This introduction will summarize key reasons why checklists matter.

Understanding the Scope of Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies can take many forms - from natural disasters like hurricanes and blizzards to man-made events like power grid failures. Having contingency plans and supplies readily available helps reduce panic and instills confidence to tackle unexpected crises.

Checklists serve as cornerstones guiding systematic preparation. They outline fundamental provisions like shelf-stable food, water, first aid, tools, and more. Checklists also prompt considerations for special needs like medications, infant supplies, or dietary restrictions.

Ultimately, checklists enable methodical, stress-free planning so that when adversity hits, you can focus on safety and survival rather than scrambling for basics.

The Advantages of an Organized Survival Approach

Approaching emergency preparedness in an organized fashion using checklists carries many benefits:

Identifies baseline essentials for health and welfare during crises
Prevents last-minute scrambling when disasters strike
Allows customization for factors like family size, ages, pets
Simplifies logistics of assembling and maintaining supplies
Promotes peace-of-mind knowing contingencies are covered

An orderly framework for preparedness enables one to assess true needs, budget accordingly, and avoid unnecessary panic. Checklists allow for systematic readiness, making survival provisions a routine part of life rather than an afterthought.

What foods should I stockpile for survival?

When building your emergency food supply, focus on nutrient-dense non-perishable foods that will provide sustenance in a crisis scenario. Here are some of the most essential categories to stock up on:

Proteins

Stock up on canned varieties of meat, beans, fish, and other proteins. Some good options include:

Canned chicken, turkey, tuna, salmon, sardines
Canned baked beans, kidney beans, chickpeas
Beef stew, chili with beans
Peanut butter and other nut butters

Canned meats provide protein as well as fat and calories needed for energy. Beans and legumes are excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber.

Aim for survival food and supplies that have a shelf life of at least 5 years. Canned goods stored properly can last even longer.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and veggies stored in cans, pouches or dehydrated forms are ideal for stockpiling. Some examples:

Canned tomatoes, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, green beans
Dried fruits like mangoes, cranberries, raisins
Dehydrated veggie mixes or powders to add to meals

Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals and fiber. Having a variety helps round out nutrition.

Grains, Cereal, Crackers

Grains are calorie-dense and store well. Build your stockpile with:

White rice, pastas, oats
Whole grain crackers
Boxes of fortified dry cereal

Look for whole grains whenever possible for added nutrition. Rice and pasta last indefinitely if stored properly.

Oils and Fats

Don't forget cooking staples like vegetable oil, olive oil, shortening or ghee. These add calories and healthy fats. Rotate every 2 years.

Water

Have at least 1 gallon of water per person for 3 days minimum. Store more if possible. Refresh every 6 months.

With the right selection of survival food and supplies, you can build an emergency stockpile tailored to your household's needs. Start with the basics and gradually increase quantities. Maintain and cycle out items as needed.

What are the top 10 survival foods?

When building an emergency food supply, focusing on shelf-stable foods that provide maximum nutrients is key. Here are 10 of the best survival foods to stock up on:

Whole grains like oats, brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta - These are packed with fiber and nutrients. Look for whole grain options with longer shelf lives.
Canned goods like beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, and meats - Canned goods are convenient, affordable, and have a long shelf life. Prioritize essentials like beans for protein.
Nuts and seeds - High in protein, healthy fats and nutrients. Stick to raw nuts in shells for longer freshness.
Lentils and dried beans - Excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber. They last for years when properly stored.
Canned or dried vegetables and fruits - Choose versatile veggies like carrots and potatoes. Dried fruits offer essential vitamins and minerals.
Powdered milk, shelf-stable dairy - While not as tasty, powdered milk products provide calcium and vitamin D.
Whole grain cereals, granola - Opt for less processed cereals and make sure to check expiration dates.
Jerky, canned meats - For protein and essential amino acids. Beef and salmon jerky can last 12+ months.
Comfort foods like honey, peanut butter, jam - These familiar foods boost morale in stressful situations.
Multivitamins - As insurance for any nutritional gaps in your food supply. Choose tablets over gummies for longer shelf life.

When building your emergency food reserves, be sure to consider any dietary restrictions and regularly cycle out items as they near expiration dates. Having the essential foods on hand takes the stress out of any disaster scenario.

What food should I put in my survival kit?

When building your survival food kit, focus on shelf-stable foods that provide nutrients and calories. Here are some essentials to include:

Canned and Preserved Foods

Canned meats, fruits, vegetables, soups, and stews are convenient options with a long shelf life. Choose low-sodium varieties when possible. Other preserved foods like peanut butter, jelly, honey, and crackers are also handy additions.

Canned tuna, chicken, spam
Canned beans, vegetables, fruits
Canned soups and stews
Peanut butter and jelly
Crackers
Honey

Dried and Freeze-Dried Foods

Foods that are dried or freeze-dried are lightweight and compact. They also allow you to stock up on essential nutrients.

Beef and turkey jerky
Nuts and trail mixes
Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, and apricots
Oatmeal and granola
Powdered milk and eggs

Comfort Foods

Don't forget to stock up on comfort foods as well to help boost morale. Some ideas:

Granola and protein bars
Hot chocolate packets
Tea and coffee
Hard candy

Rotate and replace food items every 6-12 months to ensure freshness. Also be sure to store food properly by keeping it cool, dry, and dark. With the right survival food kit, you'll be prepared when disaster strikes.

What survival food has the longest shelf life?

Freeze-dried meat is an excellent option for long-term food storage with an unmatched shelf life of 25+ years. Some key benefits of freeze-dried meat for your emergency food supply include:

Extremely Long Shelf Life: Properly packaged freeze-dried meats can last over 25 years. This makes it perfect for extended emergencies.
Lightweight and Portable: Since the water is removed, freeze-dried meat is much lighter than traditional canned goods. Easy to pack and transport.
Convenient Preparation: Only requires boiling water for quick reconstitution. Saves time when regular cooking is not possible.
Nutritious: Freeze-drying locks in nutrients. Reconstituted meats provide protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for survival situations.

In summary, freeze-dried meat checks all the boxes for an emergency food supply. With its exceptionally long shelf life of 25+ years, it is the ultimate long-term protein source. There is no good reason not to stock up on freeze-dried meat as part of your food preparations. It provides nutritious, convenient and long-lasting sustenance when you need it most.

Strategizing Your 25-Year Emergency Food Supply

Assessing Quantity and Nutritional Balance

When planning for a 25-year emergency food supply, carefully consider the quantity and nutritional balance of foods needed to support good health. Take into account your family size, individual calorie needs, activity levels, and any special dietary requirements.

Aim for a variety of shelf-stable foods that provide protein, fruits/vegetables, grains, healthy fats, and key micronutrients. Tracking the nutritional profile of your stockpile can help identify any gaps to fill. Consider having at least a 3-month supply of daily vitamins as well.

Portion out food needs in regular intervals based on realistic consumption rates. Account for decreased variety or appetite fatigue over long periods. Planning appropriate quantities and nutrition is key for both short and long-term preparedness.

Incorporating Shelf-Stable Food Varieties

Numerous commercially packaged and home-canned foods can safely last 10+ years in proper storage conditions. Prioritize items naturally high in preservatives or prepared to be shelf-stable like:

Canned goods (meats, beans, fruits, vegetables)
Dried grains, legumes, pasta
Freeze-dried produce
Hard tack biscuits
Vegetable oils
Honey, salt, sugar
Home-canned foods (meats, soups, vegetables)

Rotate stock regularly, using first-in-first-out methods. Inspect cans/packaging for damage, rust, swelling before consumption. Ensure storage areas are cool, dark, and dry to maximize shelf life.

Rotating and Managing the Food Supply

To avoid waste from expired items, establish a rotation system for your emergency food supply. Mark purchase/canning dates clearly on all items and shelving. Follow a first-in-first out system when retrieving food for routine use.

Designate areas for short and long-term storage items. Place newly added inventory in the “use last” section. Move older items nearing expiration dates to regular pantry access. This ensures you draw down existing stock before replenishing with new.

Take occasional inventories and inspect storage conditions. Donate items close to expiration to local food banks. Compost anything spoiled to avoid contamination.

Considerations for Special Dietary Needs

Those with medical conditions, allergies, or religious restrictions require specialized emergency food preparations. Accommodate needs by stockpiling suitable shelf-stable substitutes like:

Gluten-free grains and flours
Non-dairy milks (soy, almond, coconut)
Diabetic-friendly foods low in sugars/carbs
Alternate protein sources like quinoa, legumes, nuts, seeds
Baby food and formula if infants are involved

Water filtration methods may also be necessary for those with chemical sensitivities.

Work closely with your family’s healthcare providers to build customized stockpiles that enable safe, nutritious eating for at least 90 days. Identify gaps in commercially available foods to fill through home preservation methods.

Emergency Food Supply for a Family of 4

Calculating Food Needs for Family Members

When preparing an emergency food supply for a family, it's important to calculate the food needs for each member. As a general guideline, plan for the following daily calorie requirements:

Children ages 1-3: 1,000-1,400 calories
Children ages 4-8: 1,200-1,600 calories
Children ages 9-13: 1,600-2,000 calories
Women: 1,800-2,200 calories
Men: 2,200-2,800 calories

To determine the total food supply needed, multiply the daily calories by the number of people in each age group, then by the desired number of days you want the food supply to last (ex. 30 days).

When estimating quantities, remember that nutritionally-dense foods like grains, proteins, fruits, vegetables and dairy provide calories and nutrients for good health. Include variety to meet all dietary needs.

Selecting Family-Friendly Food Options

Choose familiar, kid-friendly foods as well as nutritious items your family enjoys to ensure good morale during an emergency:

Canned soups, vegetables, beans, fruits
Peanut butter and nut butters
Dried fruits and trail mixes
Cereals, granola bars
Comfort foods like macaroni & cheese, pasta, rice dishes
Powdered milk, shelf-stable puddings
Crackers, pretzels, cookies

For picky eaters, having recognizable flavors and textures can help lower stress levels all around. Include some sweets like chocolate and candy in moderation.

Storage Solutions for Larger Quantities

When storing a 3-6 month supply for a household, take advantage of space-saving storage methods:

Airtight containers under beds, in closets, the basement
Shelving units and organizing racks to neatly arrange items
Multiple smaller containers to divide categories of food
Label all containers with contents and expiration dates
Store in dark, temperature-controlled spaces if possible

Easy access to the food ensures you can rotate stock and use items in regular cooking before expiration.

Planning for Family-Specific Dietary Restrictions

Make sure to have alternatives and substitutions available for family members with food allergies, intolerances and special diets:

Gluten-free grains and flours
Non-dairy milks like soy, almond, oat
Items free of common allergens like nuts, eggs and seafood
Low-sodium options for those restricting sodium
Additional fruits, vegetables and lean proteins for vegan/vegetarian diets
Vitamin supplements as needed

Having the right foods on hand prevents health issues and ensures everyone's needs are met. Check labels and research specialty diet items if necessary.

Choosing the Best Emergency Food Supply

When building an emergency food supply, it's important to choose high-quality, nutritious options with a long shelf life. Here are some key factors to consider:

Evaluating Emergency Food Brands and Options

Look for reputable brands that specialize in emergency and survival food. These tend to use advanced processing and packaging methods to maximize shelf life. Some top brands include:

Mountain House - Known for freeze-dried meals with a shelf life of up to 30 years. High reviews for taste.
Wise Foods - Specializes in freeze-dried meat, fruits, vegetables with 25+ year shelf life. Non-GMO.
Augason Farms - Offers a variety of emergency food kits with vegetarian/gluten-free options. Focuses on nutrient density.

Compare nutritional information between brands and meal types. Look for options packed with protein, vitamins/minerals.

Understanding Food Shelf Life and Preservation

The shelf life of survival food is determined by the preservation method:

Freeze-dried: Water is removed from ingredients through freeze drying. Shelf life of 25-30 years. Must be rehydrated before eating.
Dehydrated: Similar to freeze-dried but done at higher temps. Shelf life around 25 years.
MREs: Moisture-resistant pouches with pre-cooked meals. Shelf life around 5 years. Just heat and eat.

Proper storage extends shelf life. Store in cool, dry place away from temperature fluctuations.

Balancing Cost with Quality

Higher quality brands that use advanced processing tend to cost more. But you get what you pay for in terms of shelf life and nutrition.

Consider making bulk purchases of your preferred brand to save money. Shop sales when possible.

Building a varied, nutritionally complete food supply is ideal for long-term sustainability.

Taste Testing and Palatability

Before stocking up, sample different meal options to find varieties you enjoy. Taste preferences may evolve over time, so versatility is key.

Many brands offer sample packs or smaller pouches. Check online reviews as well for feedback on taste/texture.

Having some comfort foods in your supply can lift morale in tough times. But focus mainly on nutrient density.

Prioritize food quality and shelf life first. Consider adding basic spices to enhance flavor if needed.

Assembling Survival Food Kits

Assembling comprehensive survival food kits is a critical component of emergency preparedness. These kits should contain adequate calories and nutrition to sustain an individual or group during a crisis scenario.

Kit Components and Caloric Content

When assembling survival food kits, key considerations include:

Calories: Kits should contain approximately 2,000-2,500 calories per person per day. Higher activity levels may require more calories.
Macronutrients: Kits should have a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Good sources include:
Protein: Canned meat/fish, jerky, protein bars
Carbs: Canned fruits/vegetables, granola, crackers
Fats: Nuts, peanut butter, oil
Micronutrients: Include a multivitamin to provide essential vitamins and minerals. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods.
Water: Have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day. Consider including water filtration/purification tools.

Customizing Kits for Individual Needs

Personalize kits to meet dietary restrictions and preferences:

Allergies: Avoid products containing common allergens like wheat, dairy, etc.
Diets: Accommodate vegan/vegetarian, keto, paleo, etc. requirements.
Tastes: Include enjoyable comfort foods to boost morale in stressful situations.

Also tailor kits for:

Environments: Mountain, desert, cold weather climates all have unique needs.
Activities: Backpacking requires lightweight options compared to home kits.
Duration: Stock 1-7 days for grab-and-go bags, or over 25 years for long-term storage.

Portable Packaging and Ease of Use

Choose durable, lightweight containers that are easy to transport such as:

Sealable plastic buckets or bags
Waterproof storage bins
Backpacks or duffel bags

Prioritize foods that require minimal preparation like canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruits/meats.

Include a manual can opener, eating utensils, cups, and other essentials.

Maintaining and Updating Food Kits

Routinely check kit contents and:

Take inventory: Document everything included and replace used items.
Check expiration dates: Rotate out expired or soon-to-expire foods first.
Inspect packaging: Replace damaged containers that may compromise freshness.
Refresh supplies: After using kits, replenish stocks to prepare for the next event.

Following these best practices for assembling and maintaining survival food kits helps ensure you have nutritious, safe foods when they are needed most. Customize contents based on factors like climate, activity level, dietary needs, and intended duration of use. Store foods properly and routinely update kits so they are ready for deployment at a moment's notice.

Utilizing MRE Survival Food

MREs, or Meals Ready to Eat, can be a practical and efficient food source to have on hand for emergency situations when access to fresh food is limited.

Benefits of MREs in Emergency Scenarios

Long shelf life - MREs are designed to last for years, making them ideal for emergency stockpiles and survival kits. Many MREs have a shelf life of 5+ years.
Easy to prepare - MREs only require the addition of water or heat to prepare, which is useful when minimal cooking resources are available. Most MRE entrees can be eaten cold if needed.
Balanced nutrition - MREs provide a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and other nutrients to support health during an emergency. Typical MREs contain about 1200 calories.
Portable & durable - MREs come in lightweight, durable packaging, allowing for easy transport and storage. Unopened MRE pouches are waterproof and rodent-proof.

Selecting High-Quality MRE Options

When selecting MREs, consider:

Taste - Seek MRE brands that offer more variety and better tasting options. Consumer reviews can provide helpful insight.
Nutritional value - Check the calorie, protein, vitamin, and mineral content to ensure a balanced nutritional profile.
Ingredient quality - Opt for MREs with fewer artificial additives and preservatives when possible.

Innovations in MRE Technology

Recent innovations in MRE technology include:

Improved packaging to extend shelf life. Some pouches now have a 5-year+ shelf life.
More entrée options and better tasting food using higher quality ingredients.
Flameless ration heaters that allow self-heating of MRE pouches using just water.
Lighter overall package weight while maintaining nutritional content.

Incorporating MREs into Your Overall Food Strategy

Strategies for effectively using MREs for emergency preparedness include:

Stockpile MREs as your base survival food supply and supplement with other foods (canned goods, freeze-dried items, snacks) to add more variety.
Rotate your MRE stockpile annually to use up older pouches and replace with newer ones. Check expiration dates.
Have at least a 2-week supply of MREs for each person based on 3 MREs per day. Adjust quantity based on your family size and intended length of emergency usage.
Field test and taste test MRE options under non-emergency conditions to find reliable brands with meals your family will eat.

Having MREs as part of your overall emergency food preparations can provide reliable, nutritious meals when you need them most. Follow best practices for storage, rotation, and incorporating MREs as one component of a broader food strategy.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Survival Food and Supplies

Having a well-stocked supply of survival food and other essentials is critical for emergency preparedness. By creating a comprehensive checklist and stocking up on non-perishables, water, first aid items, and other gear, you can ensure your family is ready for any situation.

Here are some key takeaways when building your survival stockpile:

Prioritize high-protein, nutrient-dense foods with a long shelf life. MREs, freeze-dried meals, canned goods, and cereal grains are all good options.
Calculate how much food you need based on your household size and expected length of an emergency scenario. Aim for at least a 3-month supply.
Store food properly by investing in mylar bags, oxygen absorbers, and waterproof storage containers to maximize shelf life.
Diversify food sources by including comfort foods along with basic staples. Special dietary needs should also be taken into consideration.
Take stock and rotate items before they expire. This ensures nothing goes to waste and your stockpile integrity is maintained.
Re-evaluate your needs annually as your situation changes. Adjust quantities and items accordingly.

Preparing for the unexpected gives you confidence and peace of mind. By starting with survival food essentials and supplies, you can ensure your family’s basic needs are covered in an emergency. Revisit your checklist and stockpile routinely to confirm you have what you need when you need it most.