Regardless of what the future will bring, there are basic needs we all have in common.
We need food, water, shelter, activity and inspiration. In addition we need responsibility, preparation and determination.
I have experienced hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, fires, snow storm whiteouts, snowed in for 2 weeks, truckers strike, job loss, and economic downturns. I am not a prepper with a bunker in the backyard, living in an isolated area, etc. But I do believe in having some necessities on hand just in case. And there will be no need for the expensive, water consuming, 10 year, dehydrated food storage boxes of large food containers! Here are some simple guidelines that will get you started today.
Make a list of foods your family like that are nonperishable. This is basically non-refrigerated and non-frozen foods. Think shelf life. Put them in categories: proteins, carbohydrates, fats.
Proteins: canned beans, fish, meat and poultry, raw seeds and tree nuts (not peanuts), nut butters in jars.
Carbohydrates: potatoes (mashed potato mix), rice, canned vegetables and fruit, pasta and cans or jars of pasta sauce, dry cereals, crackers, oatmeal, dried fruit, pancake mix and syrup.
Fats: olive oil, coconut oil, nut butters, canned salmon, olives, dehydrated butter.
Staples: salt and pepper, spices, baking soda and baking powder, flour, powdered eggs.
Tip: Each time you go shopping pick up a few extra items for your Emergency Food Pantry. Be sure to rotate stock so none go out of date. To have balanced meals include foods from each of the 3 categories in each meal. Don’t buy food for your Emergency Food Pantry from a discount store. Their expiration dates are almost used up before you buy! Use those foods for your eveyday meals, not your Emergency Food Pantry.
Water: Save washed, large, plastic beverage containers and start storing water. Put the date on them. Change the water every 6 months. When you refresh your storage water don’t throw that water away. You can water your plants, wash your dishes or clothes with it. Conserve our natural resources!
Extra: It is also a good idea to have a large, comprehensive first aid kit and book. If you have pets, store food and water for them too. If you are on meds ask if you can get extra.
Tip: The focus of your purchases must be on nutritious foods. Don’t buy candy, cookies, etc. with high sugar and low nutrients. Use canned fruit as your desserts. Make a plan and stick to it. Consistently adding a few food items each time you shop will help you build your Emergency Food Pantry inexpensively. You will feel more secure knowing that you have food regardless of what new challenges life presents us with!
