Introduction
Preppers are people who have taken steps to prepare for a major emergency or disaster. They typically have a well-stocked pantry and cupboards, a cache of survival supplies, and a plan for what to do in case of an emergency.
If you’re new to prepping, you may be wondering what food you should buy to get started. Here are some basics that all preppers should have on hand:
-Canned goods: Canned foods are a staple of any prepper‘s diet. They’re easy to store and can provide you with a nutritious meal in case of an emergency. Look for canned fruits, vegetables, meats, and soups.
-Dried goods: Dried foods have a long shelf life and can be used to make quick meals or add bulk to recipes. Pasta, rice, beans, and dried fruit are all good options.
-Condiments and spices: Condiments and spices can make all the difference in a meal. Be sure to stock up on salt, pepper, vinegar, ketchup, mustard, and other favorites.
-Non-perishable snacks: Snacks are important for keeping your energy levels up during an emergency. Choose items that won’t go bad quickly, such as nuts, crackers, granola bars, and dried fruit.
With these items on hand, you’ll be able to make simple but nutritious meals in case of an emergency.
Non-Perishable Foods
As a prepper, it is important to have non-perishable foods in your pantry. Non-perishable foods are those that can be stored for long periods of time without spoilage. This includes canned goods, dried goods, and freeze-dried foods.
Canned Foods
Canned foods are a prepper’s best friend. They have a long shelf life, are lightweight and easy to transport, and can be used to cook a variety of meals. When stockpiling canned goods, it’s important to select items that you and your family will actually eat. There’s no point in stockpiling cans of Spam if no one in your family likes it! Here are some suggested items to include in your cache:
-Canned fruits and vegetables
-Canned meat (tuna, chicken, spam, etc.)
-Canned soups and chili
-Canned beans
-Canned sauce and tomato paste
Packaged Foods
Packaged foods are any foods that come in a box, can, bag, or another type of container. Non-perishable food items do not need to be refrigerated and have a long shelf life. Some examples of common packaged foods include cereal, crackers, pasta, chips, snacks, and candy. While most packaged foods are processed and high in unhealthy additives, there are some healthy packaged foods available. When shopping for healthy packaged foods, look for options that are made with whole grains, contain no added sugar, and are low in sodium.
Dried Foods
Dried foods are a great way to store food for a long time. They can be stored in a cool, dry place and don’t need to be refrigerated. Some common dried foods include dried fruits, vegetables, beans, and grains. You can buy dried foods in the store or make them yourself at home.
When drying foods at home, you can use a dehydrator or your oven. Dehydrators are faster and will preserve more nutrients, but ovens can work in a pinch. Be sure to dry your foods completely before storing them, as even a little moisture can cause mold to grow.
Storing dried foods in an airtight container will help them last even longer. Mason jars work well for this, but you can also use zip-top bags or vacuum-sealed bags. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to store your dried foods in the fridge or freezer to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the air.
Perishable Foods
When it comes to stocking up on supplies, perishable foods are often overlooked. Preppers tend to focus on non-perishable items like canned goods and rice, but perishable items are an important part of your stockpile as well. Perishable foods have a shorter shelf life, so you will need to rotate them more often. However, they can be a lifesaver in a crisis. Here are some perishable foods that every prepper should have in their stockpile.
Fresh Foods
Preppers know that stocking up on non-perishable food items is an important part of being prepared for an emergency. But what about perishable foods? What fresh foods should preppers buy to have on hand in case of a power outage or other emergency?
Here are some suggested items to include in your perishable food inventory:
-Eggs
-Milk
-Cheese
-Butter
-Yogurt
-Poultry
-Beef
-Fish
-Vegetables
-Fruit
Frozen Foods
Frozen foods are a great option for preppers because they have a long shelf life and can be stored in a variety of ways.
There are two main types of frozen food: TVP (textured vegetable protein) and MREs (meals ready to eat).TVP is made from soybeans and is a great source of protein. It can be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and casseroles. MREs are military-style meals that come in individual packages. They contain everything you need for a complete meal, including entrees, sides, and desserts.
When choosing frozen foods, look for products that are low in sodium and fat. Also, check the expiration date to make sure the food will still be good when you need it.
Conclusion
Based on the information in this guide, preppers should stock up on non-perishable food items, water, and first-aid supplies. They should also have a plan for how to cook and clean without running water or electricity.