Having a six-month emergency food supply is an essential part of any comprehensive emergency preparedness plan. In the event of a natural disaster, power outage, or other emergency situation, having a stockpile of non-perishable food can mean the difference between surviving and struggling to get by.
There are a variety of options available when it comes to building a six-month food supply, including purchasing pre-made kits or assembling your own stockpile from scratch. Some factors to consider when selecting the right option for you include your budget, dietary restrictions, and storage space.
While it may seem daunting to think about preparing for an emergency situation, taking the time to build a six-month food supply can provide peace of mind and ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for whatever may come your way.
Why You Need a 6 Month Food Supply
Having a 6 month food supply can be a smart move for a variety of reasons. Here are just a few:
- Emergency Preparedness: In case of a natural disaster, power outage, or other emergency situation, having a stockpile of food can help you and your family stay fed until help arrives.
- Financial Savings: As inflation rises, the cost of food is likely to increase as well. By stocking up on non-perishable items, you can save money in the long run and avoid having to pay higher prices for essentials.
- Convenience: Having a 6 month food supply means you won't have to worry about constantly restocking your pantry. This can save you time and energy, and make meal planning and preparation easier.
Of course, building a 6 month food supply takes time and effort, but the benefits can be well worth it. By gradually accumulating a variety of shelf-stable items, you can ensure that you and your family are prepared for whatever the future may hold.
How to Calculate Your Food Supply Needs
When it comes to building a six-month food supply, it is important to calculate your family's needs accurately. You don't want to run out of food during an emergency, but you also don't want to overstock and waste food. Here are some steps to help you calculate your food supply needs:
- Determine the number of people in your household.
- Decide on the length of time you want to prepare for. Most people aim for a six-month food supply, but you can adjust this based on your personal circumstances.
- Calculate the daily calorie intake for each person in your household. An average man should take about 2,500kcal (10,500kJ) of calories in a diet per day, while a woman should take 2,000kcal (8,400kJ) a day. These values vary, depending on the age and physical activities the person does.
- Multiply the daily calorie intake by the number of people in your household and the number of days you want to prepare for. This will give you the total number of calories you need to store.
Once you have calculated the total number of calories you need to store, you can start planning your food supply. Keep in mind that you should aim for a variety of foods that provide essential nutrients and vitamins. You can also consider storing non-perishable items such as canned goods, dried fruits, and nuts.
It is also important to rotate your food supply regularly to ensure that it stays fresh. You can use the “first in, first out” method to ensure that the oldest items are used first. Keep track of expiration dates and replace any expired items as needed.
By following these steps, you can calculate your food supply needs accurately and ensure that your family is prepared for any emergency.
What Foods to Include in Your 6 Month Food Supply
Non-Perishable Foods
When building a 6-month food supply, it is important to include non-perishable foods that can last for an extended period of time without refrigeration or freezing. Some examples of non-perishable foods to consider include:
- Canned fruits and vegetables
- Canned meats (tuna, chicken, etc.)
- Dried beans and lentils
- Pasta and rice
- Cereal and oatmeal
- Peanut butter and other nut butters
- Crackers and other dry snacks
Foods with Long Shelf Life
In addition to non-perishable foods, it is important to include foods with a long shelf life in your 6-month food supply. These foods can last for months or even years when stored properly. Some examples of foods with a long shelf life to consider include:
| Food Item | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Honey | Indefinite |
| White rice | Up to 30 years |
| Dried beans | Up to 30 years |
| Peanut butter | Up to 2 years |
Foods with High Nutritional Value
When building a 6-month food supply, it is important to include foods that provide high nutritional value to ensure that you and your family are getting the necessary vitamins and minerals. Some examples of foods with high nutritional value to consider include:
- Canned fruits and vegetables (low sodium)
- Canned or dried beans and lentils
- Canned or pouch-packaged fish (salmon, sardines, etc.)
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Whole grain pasta and rice
- Canned or boxed soups (low sodium)
By including a variety of non-perishable foods, foods with a long shelf life, and foods with high nutritional value, you can ensure that you and your family have a well-rounded and sustainable 6-month food supply.
How to Store Your 6 Month Food Supply
Storage Containers
When it comes to storing your 6 month food supply, the type of container you use is important. You want to choose containers that are airtight, durable, and able to keep out moisture and pests. Here are some container options:
- Food-grade plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids
- Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers
- Metal cans with sealable lids
Be sure to label each container with the contents and date of storage.
Location
Where you store your food supply is just as important as the type of container you use. You want to choose a location that is cool, dry, and dark. Basements, pantries, and closets are all good options. Avoid storing food in areas that are prone to temperature fluctuations or high humidity, such as garages or attics.
It's also important to consider accessibility. Make sure your food supply is stored in a location that is easy to access in case of an emergency. You don't want to have to move heavy containers or navigate a cluttered space when you're in a hurry.
Rotation System
Proper rotation is key to maintaining a 6 month food supply. You want to make sure you're using the oldest items first and replacing them with new ones. Here are some tips for setting up a rotation system:
- Use the first in, first out (FIFO) method. This means you use the oldest items first and replace them with new ones.
- Create an inventory list of your food supply so you know what you have and when it needs to be rotated.
- Set a reminder to check your inventory and rotate your food supply every 6 months.
By following these storage and rotation tips, you can ensure that your 6 month food supply stays fresh and ready to use in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Having a 6-month food supply is a wise investment for anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies. It provides peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones will have enough food to last for several months in case of natural disasters or other emergencies.
When choosing a 6-month food supply, it is important to consider factors such as the nutritional value of the food, the shelf life, and the ease of preparation. The 6-month standard emergency food pack from Emergency Food Storage UK is a great option for those looking for a comprehensive food supply that meets these criteria.
It is also important to regularly check and rotate your food supply to ensure that the food remains fresh and safe to eat. This will help you avoid wasting food and ensure that you have enough food to last for the entire 6-month period.
Overall, investing in a 6-month food supply is a smart decision that can help you and your family stay safe and prepared in case of emergencies. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure that you have enough food to last for several months, no matter what happens.