I want to build a simple emergency food supply. What are the best non-perishable items to include?

A good emergency food supply doesn't need to be expensive or complicated. The best approach is to build a "deep pantry" of foods you already eat and rotate regularly, rather than buying specialty survival foods. FEMA and other emergency preparedness agencies recommend keeping foods that require little or no cooking, refrigeration, or water, along with enough water for everyone in your household.

Here are some of the best non-perishable items to include:

A few additional essentials make the food supply much more practical:

• Manual can opener
• Paper plates, cups, and utensils
• Extra drinking water (at least 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation)
• Baby food, pet food, or medically necessary foods if applicable

A simple 3-day supply for one adult

• 6–8 cans of beans or canned meat
• 3–4 cans of vegetables
• 3–4 cans of fruit
• 1 large jar of peanut butter
• 1 box of crackers
• 1 container of instant oatmeal
• 6–8 protein or granola bars
• 1–2 cartons of shelf-stable milk
• Coffee or tea (if you drink it)
• 3 gallons of water

Storage tips

• Rotate food by using the oldest items first and replacing them during normal grocery shopping.
• Store food in a cool, dry place.
• Check expiration dates once or twice a year.
• Choose foods your household actually enjoys eating so nothing goes to waste.

If you're preparing for a longer disruption (such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or winter storms), building up to a two-week supply provides a larger margin of safety than the minimum three-day supply often recommended for basic preparedness.

Building a simple emergency food supply is a great way to ensure peace of mind. The best items are shelf-stable , require minimal or no cooking/water to prepare, and fit your family's dietary preferences.

Here are the best non-perishable categories and items to include:

• Canned Meats and Fish : Tuna, chicken, salmon, and SPAM provide essential protein and have a long shelf life. Canned varieties with pull-tabs are ideal if you don't have a manual can opener handy.
• Canned Fruits and Vegetables : Canned green beans, corn, peas, peaches, and mixed fruit provide vital vitamins, minerals, and an extra source of hydration.
• Canned and Dried Beans/Lentils : Black beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas are nutrient-dense powerhouses packed with fiber and protein.
• Nut Butters : Peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter are high in calories, healthy fats, and protein, and they require zero cooking.
• Whole Grains and Starches : Rolled oats, instant rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat crackers store well and supply sustained energy.
• Shelf-Stable Milk : Ultra-high temperature (UHT) pasteurized milk or plant-based milks (almond, soy, oat) in aseptic cartons provide calcium and calories.
• Dried Fruit and Nuts : Raisins, cranberries, almonds, walnuts, and trail mix make high-energy, easy-to-eat snacks.
• Canned Soups and Chili : Ready-to-eat varieties provide comforting, warm meals (if you have a way to heat them) and extra liquid intake.
• Comfort and Flavor Boosters : Honey, sugar, salt, coffee, tea, and bouillon cubes or instant broth packets lift morale and improve the taste of bland staples.
• Bottled Water : Keep at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day, for drinking and basic sanitation.

Would you like help calculating how many days of food you want to store, or do you have any dietary restrictions (like gluten-free or low-sodium) that we should factor in?

Building a simple emergency food supply is a smart step for preparedness. You want items that require little to no cooking, have a long shelf life, and provide a good balance of calories and nutrients.

Here are the best non-perishable categories and items to include:

• Canned Meats and Fish (Tuna, chicken, salmon, and spam): Excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. Many can be eaten straight from the can if power is out.
• Canned Fruits and Vegetables (Peaches, pears, green beans, corn, and peas): Provide essential vitamins, fiber, and extra hydration if water is scarce.
• Canned or Dried Beans and Lentils (Black beans, pinto beans, and chickpeas): Inexpensive, high in fiber, and packed with plant-based protein.
• Nut Butters (Peanut butter, almond butter): High-calorie, nutrient-dense, and requires no refrigeration or cooking. Great for a quick energy boost.
• Whole Grains and Starches (Oatmeal, instant rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat crackers): Provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Quick-cook or instant varieties are best to conserve fuel.
• Shelf-Stable Milk (UHT pasteurized milk, powdered milk, or plant-based milks in aseptic cartons): Good for cereal, coffee, or getting calcium and vitamin D when fresh dairy isn't available.
• Canned Soups and Chilis (Hearty bean, lentil, or meat-based varieties): Comforting, easy to heat (or eat at room temperature in a pinch), and provide both food and liquid.
• Dried Fruit and Nuts/Seeds (Raisins, apricots, almonds, sunflower seeds): Space-saving snacks rich in healthy fats, protein, and natural sugars.
• Energy or Protein Bars : Individually wrapped, highly portable, and great for grab-and-go situations.
• Comfort Foods and Flavor Enhancers (Coffee, tea, chocolate, honey, salt, and hot sauce): Small morale boosters go a long way during a stressful emergency.
• Water (Crucial non-food essential): Store at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day, for drinking and sanitation.

If you'd like, tell me:

• How many people you are feeding
• How many days of emergency supply you want to build
• Any dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, allergies)

I can help you build a custom checklist and quantity estimate.

A good emergency food supply doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. For most households, a "deep pantry" of foods you already eat is often more practical than buying specialized survival meals. FEMA recommends keeping at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food (and notes that a 2-week supply is even better if you have the space), along with enough water.

Here's a balanced list of staples:

Protein

• Canned tuna, salmon, or chicken
• Canned beans (black, kidney, chickpeas, lentils)
• Peanut butter or other nut butters
• Shelf-stable tofu
• Beef jerky or meat sticks
• Nuts and seeds

Grains and carbohydrates

• Rice (white stores longer than brown)
• Pasta
• Instant oatmeal
• Ready-to-eat cereal or granola
• Crackers
• Tortillas (check shelf life)

Fruits and vegetables

• Canned vegetables
• Canned fruit packed in juice
• Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
• Applesauce cups
• Freeze-dried fruits and vegetables (optional)

Dairy alternatives

• Shelf-stable UHT milk
• Powdered milk

Ready-to-eat meals

• Canned soups and stews
• Chili
• Pasta meals
• Instant noodles (supplement with protein if possible)
• Freeze-dried meals if you expect long outages or camping-style situations

Snacks

• Granola bars
• Protein bars
• Trail mix
• Popcorn
• Dark chocolate or other treats for morale

Drinks

• Bottled water (about 1 gallon per person per day)
• Electrolyte packets
• Coffee or tea if you normally drink them

Cooking and seasoning

• Salt, pepper, spices
• Cooking oil
• Honey or sugar
• Bouillon cubes

Don't forget these essentials

• Manual can opener
• Disposable plates and utensils
• Extra drinking water
• Paper towels
• Food-safe storage bags

A few tips:

• Buy foods your household already enjoys.
• Rotate supplies by using the oldest items first and replacing them during regular grocery trips.
• Account for allergies, medical diets, infants, pets, and any medications that require food.

If you're starting from scratch, a simple one-week pantry for one adult could include:

• 7–10 cans of beans
• 7 cans of meat or fish
• 2–3 pounds of rice
• 2 pounds of pasta
• 1 jar of peanut butter
• 6–8 cans of vegetables
• 6–8 cans of fruit
• 1 large container of oats
• 1–2 boxes of crackers
• 7 gallons of water
• A selection of snacks and comfort foods

If you have the budget and want a long-term backup, a freeze-dried emergency food kit can complement your pantry.

Augason Farms 72-Hour 4-Person Emergency Meals Kit

$69.97

Mountain House Just In Case 3-Day Emergency Food Supply

$21.23

These kits have long shelf lives and are convenient, but they're usually best viewed as a supplement rather than a replacement for everyday pantry staples.

Building a simple, effective emergency food supply focuses on non-perishable, nutrient-dense items that require little to no water, cooking, or refrigeration. A 3-day supply is a minimum, but experts recommend building toward 2–4 weeks for greater security.

Here are the best non-perishable items to include, categorized for convenience:

Proteins (Essential for Nutrition)

• Canned Meats & Fish: Tuna, salmon, chicken, turkey, and spam.
• Nut Butters: Peanut butter or almond butter (high calorie, high protein).
• Canned Beans & Lentils: Black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, and chili.
• Nuts and Seeds: Trail mix, almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds.
• Jerky: Beef, turkey, or plant-based jerky.

Carbohydrates & Grains (For Energy)

• Ready-to-Eat Cereal & Oatmeal: Instant oatmeal packets or cold cereal.
• Whole Grain Crackers & Melba Toast: Good alternatives to bread.
• Rice & Pasta: White or brown rice and pasta (requires water/cooking).
• Granola/Power Bars: High-calorie, nutrient-dense bars.

Fruits & Vegetables (For Vitamins)

• Canned Fruits: Packed in water or juice rather than heavy syrup.
• Canned Vegetables: Green beans, carrots, peas, and corn.
• Dried Fruit: Raisins, apricots, and cranberries.

Dairy & Pantry Staples

• Powdered Milk: Shelf-stable dairy or plant-based alternatives.
• Comfort Foods: Honey, jam, syrup, pudding cups , and cookies.
• Condiments: Salt, pepper, sugar, and oil for basic seasoning.
• Soups & Broths: Canned or dried soups.

Key Non-Food Emergency Items

• Manual Can Opener: Essential for accessing canned goods.
• Water: One gallon per person per day.
• Disposable Utensils: Plates, cups, and cutlery.
• Small Stove/Fuel: A camping stove or sternos for heating food.

Tips for Building Your Kit

• Rotate Often: Use the "First In, First Out" method—eat the oldest items first and replace them to avoid spoilage.
• Pack Familiar Foods: Choose foods your family already eats to avoid stress during a crisis.
• Consider Storage: Keep food in a cool, dry place, ideally in a designated plastic bin.

Would you like to know more about water purification methods or perhaps a 72-hour specific checklist for a small family?

A good emergency food supply doesn't need to be expensive or made up of specialty survival meals. Government preparedness guidance recommends stocking foods that are shelf-stable, require little or no cooking, and are foods you already enjoy eating. Aim for at least a 3-day supply, and many households choose to build toward 2 weeks over time.

Here are some of the best staples:

Protein

• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or sardines
• Canned beans (black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas)
• Peanut butter or other nut butters
• Shelf-stable tofu (if you eat it)
• Beef or turkey jerky

Grains and carbohydrates

• Instant oatmeal
• Rice (especially instant rice if cooking fuel may be limited)
• Pasta
• Crackers
• Whole-grain cereal or granola
• Energy or protein bars

Fruits and vegetables

• Canned vegetables
• Canned fruit packed in juice
• Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
• Unsweetened applesauce cups

Dairy alternatives

• Shelf-stable (UHT) milk
• Powdered milk

Healthy fats and snacks

• Mixed nuts
• Seeds (pumpkin or sunflower)
• Trail mix

Ready-to-eat meals

• Canned soups and stews
• Chili
• Shelf-stable pasta meals
• Instant mashed potatoes or cup soups (if you'll have hot water)

Comfort items

• Coffee or tea
• Electrolyte drink mix
• Chocolate or hard candy

Don't forget water. Store at least 1 gallon (3.8 L) per person per day for drinking and basic sanitation.

A few practical tips:

• Rotate your stock by using the oldest items first and replacing them during regular grocery shopping.
• Keep a manual can opener with your supplies.
• Choose foods that require little or no refrigeration or cooking in case the power is out.
• Include items for infants, pets, or anyone with special dietary or medical needs.

For one adult, a simple starter pantry could look like:

• 12 cans of beans
• 6 cans of tuna or chicken
• 4 cans of soup or chili
• 2 jars of peanut butter
• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) of oats
• 5 lbs (about 2.3 kg) of rice
• 2 boxes of crackers
• 2 cartons of shelf-stable milk
• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) of mixed nuts
• Several boxes of granola or protein bars
• 14 gallons (about 53 L) of water for a two-week supply

This provides a solid, affordable foundation that you can gradually expand as your budget allows.

Building a simple, effective emergency food supply focuses on non-perishable, high-calorie, and nutritious items that require little to no cooking or water . Aim for at least a 3-day supply, though 2-4 weeks is ideal.

Here are the best non-perishable items to include, categorized for easy planning:

Core Protein & Nutrition (High Shelf-Life)

• Canned Meats & Fish: Tuna, chicken, salmon, and spam.
• Nut Butters: Peanut butter or almond butter (high-calorie and nutritious).
• Canned Beans & Lentils: Black beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans.
• Dried Fruits & Nuts: Raisins, apricots, trail mix, and nuts (good for quick energy).
• Protein/Granola Bars: Dependable for quick, nutritious, no-prep snacks.

Carbohydrates & Sustenance

• Ready-to-Eat Canned Meals: Chili, stew, ravioli , and soups.
• Crackers & Whole-Grain Cereals: Crackers (vacuum-packed is best), crackers (pilot bread).
• Oats & Rice: Quick-cooking rolled oats and rice.
• Dried Fruit/Veggie Chips: Nutrient-dense snacks.

Essentials & Comfort Foods

• Powdered Milk: Shelf-stable dairy or plant-based milk.
• Honey & Sugar: Honey never expires and is a great sweetener/energy source.
• Instant Coffee, Tea, or Cocoa: Helps maintain morale.
• Cooking Oil & Spices: Salt, pepper, and oils.
• Comfort Foods: Hard candy, chocolate chips, or pudding.

Critical Non-Food Items

• Water: At least 1 gallon per person per day.
• Manual Can Opener: Essential for canned goods.
• Disposable Utensils & Plates.

Tips for Your Supply

• Rotate Stock: Use and replace items every 6-12 months to ensure freshness.
• Store Properly: Keep food in a cool, dark, and dry place.
• Pack in Small Portions: Individually packed snacks last longer once the main container is opened.

For a pre-packaged, long-shelf-life option to jumpstart your supply, the Case (12 Cans) of Future Essentials Basic Preparedness Variety Go to product viewer dialog for this item. offers a range of staples, while the 4Patriots 72-Hour Survival Food Kit Go to product viewer dialog for this item. provides a 25-year shelf-life option.

To help you better, what is the number of people you are preparing for, and are you focusing on 3 days or 2 weeks of food?

A good emergency food supply doesn't have to be expensive or filled with specialty survival foods. For most households, the best approach is to build a pantry of foods you already eat that are shelf-stable, easy to prepare, and easy to rotate. FEMA and Ready.gov recommend keeping at least a 3-day supply of food and water, while many preparedness experts suggest working toward two weeks if you have the space. Plan for about 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

Here's a practical list of non-perishable foods:

• Protein

  • Canned tuna, salmon, chicken
  • Canned beans (black, kidney, chickpeas)
  • Peanut or other nut butter
  • Shelf-stable tofu (if you eat it)
  • Beef or turkey jerky

• Grains & carbohydrates

  • Rice (white stores longer than brown)
  • Pasta
  • Instant oatmeal
  • Dry cereal
  • Crackers
  • Instant mashed potatoes

• Fruits & vegetables

  • Canned vegetables
  • Canned fruit packed in juice
  • Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
  • Applesauce cups or pouches

• Healthy fats & snacks

  • Mixed nuts
  • Trail mix
  • Granola or protein bars
  • Popcorn kernels (if you have a way to cook them)

• Comfort foods

  • Coffee or tea
  • Hot chocolate
  • Chocolate
  • Hard candy

• Cooking essentials

  • Salt, pepper, and favorite spices
  • Cooking oil
  • Sugar or honey
  • Shelf-stable milk or powdered milk

A few practical tips:

• Choose foods that require little or no cooking, especially if the power could be out.
• Include a manual can opener.
• Rotate your supplies by eating the oldest items first and replacing them during regular grocery shopping.
• Account for infants, pets, allergies, or special diets if they apply.

If you want a ready-made solution instead of building your own pantry, freeze-dried emergency meal kits can be convenient.

Mountain House 3-Day Emergency Food Supply

$68.79

These kits often have shelf lives of 20–30 years, but they typically cost more per meal than stocking canned and dry foods yourself.

For most people, a balanced emergency pantry might look like this for one adult for one week:

• 7–10 cans of protein (beans, tuna, chicken)
• 2–3 pounds of rice or pasta
• 1 large container of oatmeal
• 7–10 cans of vegetables
• 5–7 cans or cups of fruit
• 1 jar of peanut butter
• Several snack or protein bars
• Shelf-stable milk (if desired)
• Plenty of drinking water

This provides a mix of calories, protein, fiber, and foods that are easy to eat even if utilities are disrupted.

Building a simple emergency food supply focuses on non-perishable, nutrient-dense items that require little to no water, cooking, or refrigeration . A good, simple approach is to stock up on extra items you already eat, which ensures you can rotate your supply and avoid waste.

Here are the best non-perishable items to include, based on experts and emergency guidelines:

Core Protein & Main Meals

• Canned Meats & Fish: Tuna, chicken, salmon, and turkey are excellent, high-protein staples.
• Canned Beans & Legumes: Black beans, chickpeas, lentils, and kidney beans provide essential protein and fiber.
• Peanut Butter & Nut Butters: A calorie-dense, high-protein staple that doesn't need cooking.
• Canned Prepared Meals: Chili, stews, spaghetti , and soups (especially low-sodium).
• Beef/Turkey Jerky: High-protein, long-lasting snacks.

Grains & Carbohydrates (Energy Boosters)

• Ready-to-Eat Cereal & Granola: Easy breakfast options.
• Crackers & Rice Cakes: Good substitutes for bread.
• Pasta & Rice: Versatile staples, but note they require water and cooking.
• Oatmeal/Instant Oats: Quick energy source.
• Whole Grains: Such as quinoa or barley.

Fruits & Vegetables

• Canned Fruits: Packed in juice rather than heavy syrup is ideal.
• Canned Vegetables: Corn, peas, beans, and carrots.
• Dried Fruits: Raisins, apricots, and dried cranberries are nutrient-dense.

Snacks & Comfort Foods

• Protein/Granola Bars: Excellent for quick energy.
• Trail Mix & Nuts: High-calorie, nutrient-rich snacks.
• Comfort Foods: Instant pudding, cookies , crackers, or chocolate can help maintain morale.

Essential Cooking & Pantry Items

• Powdered Milk/Shelf-Stable Milk:.
• Cooking Oil/Olive Oil: Necessary for cooking and added calories.
• Honey & Sugar: Honey never spoils and provides quick energy.
• Spices & Bouillon Cubes: Adds flavor to simple meals.
• Instant Coffee or Tea:.

🚨 Critical Tips for Your Supply

• Manual Can Opener: Essential! Do not forget this.
• Rotate Stocks: Every 6 months, consume your emergency food and replace it with new items.
• Store Properly: Keep food in a cool, dry, dark place.
• Water Supply: Remember to store 1 gallon of water per person per day.
• Start Small: Buy an extra 2–3 items each time you go grocery shopping.

Would you like recommendations for a 3-day (72-hour) kit or a longer-term (2-4 week) supply ? I can also help you figure out a specific shopping list based on the number of people in your home.

A simple emergency food supply doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. Government emergency guidance recommends keeping at least a 3-day supply of food (many people aim for 1–2 weeks) that requires little or no refrigeration, water, or cooking. Rotate through it regularly so nothing expires.

Here's a solid, balanced starter list:

Don't forget water. A common recommendation is 1 gallon (about 3.8 L) per person per day for drinking and basic sanitation, for at least three days.

A few practical extras make a big difference:

• Manual can opener
• Disposable plates and utensils
• Matches or lighter (if appropriate)
• Basic spices (salt, pepper)
• Cooking oil
• Paper towels
• Trash bags

When choosing foods, prioritize:

• Items your household already enjoys
• Foods that require little or no cooking
• Long shelf life (1–5+ years depending on the product)
• Nutrient-dense, calorie-rich options
• Any special dietary needs (babies, allergies, pets, medications)

If you're just getting started, here's an affordable pantry for one adult for about a week:

• 6–8 cans of beans
• 4–6 cans of tuna or chicken
• 2 cans of soup or chili
• 2–3 pounds of rice
• 1 pound of pasta
• 1 jar of peanut butter
• 1 container of oats
• 4–6 cans of fruit and vegetables
• 1 bag of nuts or trail mix
• Several granola or protein bars
• Shelf-stable milk (optional)
• At least 7 gallons of water

This kind of supply is inexpensive, easy to rotate into everyday meals, and covers a good mix of calories, protein, and nutrients without relying on specialized emergency rations.