How Much Food You Really Need To Buy To Prepare For A Hurricane

When preparing for a hurricane, it's crucial to have enough food to last at least three to seven days as power outages and supply disruptions can occur. Focus on non-perishable items that require minimal preparation and can be consumed without cooking. Canned goods such as beans, fruits, vegetables, and meats are essential due to their long shelf life. Don't forget to include a manual can opener. Dry goods like rice, pasta, and oatmeal are also valuable, though you may need a way to heat water if you want to cook them. Snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and granola bars provide energy and are easy to eat on the go. Peanut butter is a versatile source of protein that doesn't need refrigeration. Ensure you have enough bottled water, aiming for at least one gallon per person per day, to stay hydrated and for basic sanitation needs. Consider dietary restrictions and ensure you have supplies for infants or pets if necessary. Having a variety of foods can help maintain morale and ensure nutritional needs are met during the uncertainty of a hurricane's aftermath. Regularly check expiration dates and replenish your hurricane supplies as needed to ensure everything is fresh and ready for use.
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The best foods to buy for a hurricane supply kit

When putting together a hurricane supply kit, it's crucial to prioritize safety and preparedness. Hurricanes can disrupt power for extended periods, so it's important to gather nonperishable items—foods that have a long shelf life. Thankfully, many of these essentials are common, budget-friendly grocery items, including canned goods that you likely consume regularly. Start with canned meats and fish, like tuna, along with canned fruits and vegetables. These items can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them versatile during a power outage. Don't forget to include a can opener!

Focus on including high-energy foods in your supply kit. Granola bars, trail mix, and cereal are all great options that have a long shelf life. Additionally, just because a food isn't strictly non-perishable doesn't mean it should be excluded. For instance, apples are an excellent choice to have on hand before a hurricane or other emergency. They are quite durable (especially the long-lasting Cosmic Crisp variety) and offer a refreshing alternative to canned items.

It's vital to store all your hurricane supplies in waterproof containers, ideally placed on a high shelf. Floodwaters from hurricanes can carry harmful bacteria, so it's important to keep your food safe from contamination. Regularly check the expiration dates on your supplies and replace items as needed to ensure you're always prepared for any situation.

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