Emergency Food Supplies Which One Is Worth Your Money Our Honest Review
Introduction
Emergency food supplies are in demand! They provide a great way to have nutritious meals stored away in case of a disaster. This article will review the best emergency food supplies available, so you can make the best decision. Get prepared now!
Definition of emergency food supplies
Emergency food supplies are pre-packaged meals that can provide nutrition during crisis. They can be stored for a long time and sometimes tailored to one meal.
Various forms of emergency food include:
- Canned meats
- Freeze-dried fruits and vegetables
- Storable grains
- Nutrition bars or shakes
- Microwavable entrees
- Dehydrated meals with boiling water
- Powdered milk and juice mixes
The goal is to provide balanced nutrition without the hassle of traditional cooking methods in emergencies.
Benefits of having emergency food supplies
Having emergency food can have benefits in times of crisis or disaster. These items can last for years if stored right. So, it's key to know what your choices are.
When picking emergency food, first think about if it's made for long-term storage. Research brands that last and keep nutritive value. Not all need to be kept cold, but that helps some food stay fresh.
Affordability is important too. It helps to have a range of choices and stick to a budget. Try buying in bulk or using coupons.
Lastly, check the nutrition. Make sure your emergency food is enough and meets dietary needs. That way, you and your family have healthy sustenance in an emergency.
Types of Emergency Food Supplies
Fears about food supply are rising, and emergency food supplies are a must. Different types exist, like freeze-dried, dehydrated and canned. Research the pros and cons to decide. This article reviews each type and shares our opinion on which is worth the money.
Freeze-dried food
Freeze-dried food is the best choice for an emergency food supply. Low temperatures lock in flavor and nutrition. Storage times of up to 25 years! Easy to prepare with little equipment or energy. Hot water or milk and it's ready to eat.
You can find veggies, fruits, meats, dairy, beans, legumes, grains, pastas – all can be found freeze-dried. Be sure to check for non-GMO, gluten free and a guarantee from the manufacturer. Get info from reviews or ask your local retailer.
Canned food
Canned food is a great choice for emergency storage. They are easy to store, require minimal prep, and are generally inexpensive. But, there are some considerations. Canned goods can't always last long. The contents can change and the canning process may not work. Plus, many of them need further processing and cooking before they can be eaten.
Good choices with decent shelf life and good nutrition include:
- Rice
- Beans
- Canned fruits
- Canned vegetables
It's also important to check expiration dates regularly. Look for products with less sodium or sugar to meet dietary needs in a crisis.
Dehydrated food
Are you planning an emergency food supply? Then add dehydrated food to your survival foods! It's similar to canned food, but with moisture removed. Don't worry; this process preserves much of the flavor and nutrients.
Dehydrated food's storage timeframes vary. Some need refrigeration, others just room temperature. You can also find premade meals or freeze-dried options. Prepping these supplies ahead of time gives you a steady supply when SHTF.
Here's some popular dehydrated food types:
- Dehydrated Fruits and Vegetables. Usually in packaged meals or single dried fruits/veggies.
- Freeze Dried Meals. Flavored pre-made meals in pouches, like beef stew.
- Canned Foods. Thermally processed with preservatives for taste and preservation. Look for “shelf life” on labels.
MREs
MRE stands for Meal Ready-to-Eat. It's a popular type of emergency food supply. It's lightweight, no-refrigeration needed and can be stored for years. MREs are usually used by the military, but also available for civilians.
Each package contains an entree which is pre-cooked. It can be eaten hot or cold. Also, side dishes like crackers and cookies, drink mixes and snack bars. Some packages have non-food items like condiments, matches, etc.
- No preservatives, but high calories. Over 1,200 calories per meal.
- Don't depend on MREs as your only source of food during an emergency, unless you calculate your daily caloric needs.
- Processed ingredients and artificial flavoring make them not very appetizing.
- High cost and limited selection make them impractical for long term storage.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Emergency Food Supplies
Do your research! It's important to be informed when buying emergency food supplies. There are lots of options and it can be confusing. Let's look at things to consider when selecting emergency food. It's time to make a good decision for you and your family.
- Consider the shelf-life of the food.
- Think about the nutritional value and calories per serving.
- Look for packaging that is easy to store and transport.
- Make sure the food is non-perishable and can withstand extreme temperatures.
- Choose foods that are easy to prepare and require minimal cooking.
Shelf life
When selecting an emergency food storage kit, shelf life is important. The goal is to have nutrition in an emergency, but it shouldn't be outdated. Freeze-dried foods last up to 25 years in 57-68 Fahrenheit (13-20 Celsius).
Not all emergency food supplies are the same. Quality production and storage processes during packaging, shipping, and storing can help stability. Check for vacuum-sealed packing and BPA-free containers. Pay attention to the point of origin. Closer usually means shorter transit times and fresher items. Check expiration dates. Some manufactures list “use by” date or expiration date based on climate, not packaging.
Nutritional value
Nutrition is key when selecting emergency food. Taste matters, but the food should also provide energy and nutrients. Look for products with complete proteins and complex carbohydrates. Pre-packaged meals are often fortified with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients – check labels to make sure they meet your dietary needs.
To get optimal nutrition, look for items high in fiber and other essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. Buy in bulk or get meal kits that store well – have enough for when emergencies arise.
Cost
Calculating the cost of emergency food supplies is essential for selecting the right option for you and your family. The cost depends on the type and amount of supplies. Long-term emergency food supplies usually require more investment than short-term ones. But, they are vital for providing your family with ample sustenance in case of extended periods without access to other nutrition sources.
When comparing products, pay attention to:
- Expiration dates and how long it will take to use all the food.
- Overall longevity. Some items may become unusable due to extreme temperatures or weight restrictions.
- Portion size and nutritional value so you can make an informed decision.
- Include shipping fees while making the selection.
Taste
When selecting emergency food supplies, taste is key! Don't buy meals that your family won't eat. Check labels closely and consider doing a taste test. Read customer reviews or ask people who have used the products.
Comfort food items like desserts and snacks can give morale boosts during tough times. Have something sweet on hand for special occasions, such as birthdays and anniversaries. This can mean a lot in an emergency.
Reviews of Popular Emergency Food Supplies
Emergency food supplies are vital! They can be the difference between life and death. There's a lot of choices out there. That's why we wrote this article. We'll review popular emergency food supplies. Then you can make an educated choice.
Wise Company
Wise Company is a reliable provider of emergency and long-term food supplies. It was founded in 2000. Its meals have a shelf life of up to 25 years. High-quality ingredients are used, processed, and cooked in hygienic conditions.
There are many options available, from ready-made meals to rice and pasta, powdered drinks, grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, strawberries, applesauce, and oatmeal with maple syrup flavor. The meals are packed with protein and are dehydrated for convenience.
The ingredients are non-GMO, and there are no MSG preservatives or artificial flavoring. Meals only require water to be prepared. Nutritional values are available online. Wise Company is perfect for long-term solutions and emergencies or outdoor adventures.
Mountain House
Mountain House is renowned in the emergency food supplies world. They offer freeze-dried and dehydrated food for hikers and campers. Popular products include freeze-dried strawberry granola crunch, lasagna with meat sauce and chili mac with beef.
Their meals boast a long shelf life of up to 25 years and taste great! Ingredients are sourced from sustainable producers, so you know you're getting quality. Plus they come in small packages, handy for traveling or backpacking.
Single servings mean no portioning or rationing worries. Kits are also available if you want to purchase multiple meals at once. Finally, their products are free from major allergens like wheat, milk, eggs or peanuts.
Augason Farms
Augason Farms offers the biggest selection of emergency food supplies! Products are budget-friendly and last 25-30 years. Quality assurance testing ensures safe, nutritious products.
Their top-selling Deluxe Emergency Food Supply includes breakfasts and entrees. Customers love the beef Stroganoff, creamy a la king sauce with chicken and veggies, and cheesy macaroni with cheddar. Plus, it has cooking staples like sweet rice flour and pancake mix.
For smaller needs, they have individual packages such as #10 cans of freeze dried meat, fruits, and veggies. These are perfect for when space or cost is an issue.
Augason Farms has something for everyone from beginners to experienced survivalists.
Emergency Essentials
Emergency Essentials has been around since 1972, providing long-term and emergency food supplies, water purification, first aid products, camp cooking supplies, space blankets, and insect repellent. Their motto is “Be Prepared.”
Their meal kits are custom-made for any disaster scenario, like their One-Month Supply Meal Kit. It has three breakfasts, two lunches, one dinner, plus three desserts. It also includes instructions for cooking and a list of items to supplement the diet, like snacks and seasonings. They assess locations prone to disasters to customize storage accordingly.
Their products receive high ratings from customers who have used them in emergencies or long-term situations. They are the top choice for meeting food storage needs.
Conclusion
When it comes to emergency food, the best choice for you depends on your budget and dietary needs. Check out a range of suppliers and products. Freeze-dried meals offer convenience and low-sodium proteins. Canned goods are shelf-stable and don't need much preparation. Dehydrated food offers more flavors but is usually pricier. Pick the food that suits your needs for an emergency.
Do research before buying. Compare prices and specials to get the best deal. Check the nutritional facts so you know what to include in an emergency supply kit. Choose items that you like; they will bring comfort during tough times, especially if they are ready-made!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the benefits of having emergency food supplies?
A: Having an emergency food supply can provide peace of mind in the event of an emergency. It can provide sustenance and nutrition in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency situation, and can help to reduce stress in uncertain times. Additionally, having an emergency food supply can help to reduce waste and conserve resources in the event that fresh food is not available.
Q: What types of emergency food supplies should I consider?
A: Different types of emergency food supplies may be more suitable for different situations. For example, canned and packaged food products may be more suitable for longer-term food shortages. Alternatively, freeze-dried and dehydrated meals may be more suitable for short-term emergencies as they are lightweight and can be quickly prepared. Additionally, meal replacement bars may be suitable for those looking for a quick and easy way to get nutrition in an emergency.
Q: How do I know which emergency food supply is worth my money?
A: When considering which emergency food supply is worth your money, it is important to consider factors such as the shelf life of the product, the nutritional value and ingredients, the ease of preparation, and the cost. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the product is suitable for your specific needs and that it is from a reputable manufacturer.