When less active, healthy people can survive on half of their usual food intake for a period of time, and without food at all for a few days. Food, unlike water, may be rationed safely, except for children and pregnant women.

To prepare an emergency food supply you can rely on many of the same foods you already eat: canned foods, dry mixes, etc. Canned foods don't require cooking, water, or special preparation.

You should aim to supply an emergency food stockpile that will keep your family self-sufficient for up to three days.

What do you need?

• canned soups and stews
• canned baked beans and other vegetables
• canned meats, fish, and poultry
• canned fruits
• crackers and biscuits
• honey, peanut butter, syrup, jam, salt and pepper, and sugar
• instant coffee and tea
• powdered milk
• cans or cartons of juice
• specialty infant foods and formula
• vitamins, minerals, protein supplements
• hard candy, chocolate bars
• cocoa
• non carbonated soft drinks
• rice, pasta
• canned pasta sauces
• knives, forks, spoons
• disposable cups and plates
• manual can opener, bottle opener
• fuel stove and fuel (follow manufacturer's instructions - never use a barbecue indoors)
• waterproof matches
• plastic garbage bags

Storage tips

• keep food in a dry, dark, and cool spot in your home - not above 21º Celsius and not below freezing
• keep food covered at all times
• keep perishables (ie. crackers) in airtight containers or bags
• packages of sugar, dried fruits, and nuts should be emptied into screw-top jars or containers in order to avoid pests
• inspect all food containers for spoilage.

Shelf life of stored foods

• rotate your stored foods
• check the best before dates
• use foods before they go bad and replace them with a fresh supply
• date foods with a marker
• stored foods should be of the highest quality possible
• inspect reserves periodically for broken seals or dented containers
• during the emergency, use perishables from your refrigerator first, freezer second, and finally non-perishables.

How to cook if the power goes out

• for emergency cooking you can use a fireplace, or a charcoal grill or camp stove - outdoor use only
• food can be heated with candle warmers, chafing dishes, or even fondue pots
• canned food does not require to be cooked
• make sure your family members eat at least one nutrionally balanced meal per day
• drink enough liquid to enable your body to function properly
• consume enough calories to allow you to do necessary work