Survival food storage is an essential component of any emergency preparedness plan. Whether you're facing a natural disaster, power outage, or other emergency situation, having a reliable source of food can mean the difference between survival and starvation. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the importance of survival food storage, the different types of food storage options available, and how to create a sustainable food supply that will last for years to come.
The Importance of Survival Food Storage
In an emergency situation, access to food can quickly become a critical issue. Supermarkets and grocery stores may be closed or inaccessible, and traditional food supply chains may be disrupted. This is why it's essential to have a survival food storage plan in place that will provide you and your family with the sustenance you need to survive.
When creating a survival food storage plan, it's important to consider the types of emergencies that are most likely to occur in your area and the length of time you will need to be self-sufficient. For example, if you live in an area that is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, you will want to have a food supply that will last for several weeks or even months. On the other hand, if you are preparing for a more short-term emergency, such as a power outage, a food supply that will last for several days may be sufficient.
Types of Survival Food Storage
There are several different types of food storage options available for those looking to create a sustainable food supply. The most common options include:
- Canned Foods: Canned foods are a great option for survival food storage because they have a long shelf life and can be stored in a cool, dry place. Canned meats, such as tuna, chicken, and beef, are a great source of protein, and canned fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Dehydrated Foods: Dehydrated foods, such as dried fruits and vegetables, can last for several years when stored properly. They are also lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great option for those who need to evacuate their homes in an emergency situation.
- Freeze-Dried Foods: Freeze-dried foods are a great option for survival food storage because they have a shelf life of several years and retain most of their nutritional value. They are also lightweight and easy to transport, making them a great option for those who need to evacuate their homes in an emergency situation.
- MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat): MREs are pre-packaged meals that are designed for military use, but can also be a great option for survival food storage. They have a shelf life of several years and are designed to provide essential nutrients and energy.
- Jerky: Jerky is a great option for survival food storage because it has a long shelf life and can be stored in a cool, dry place. It's also easy to transport and can be eaten on its own or used in a variety of recipes.
The History of Survival Food Storage
Survival food storage has been an essential part of human history for centuries. From ancient civilizations to modern times, humans have always had to find ways to preserve and store food for times of scarcity and emergency.
In ancient times, food preservation techniques such as drying, salting, and smoking were used to keep food from spoiling. These methods were essential for early humans who relied on hunting and gathering for their food supply. As civilizations progressed and agriculture became more prominent, food preservation techniques such as canning and pickling were developed to extend the shelf life of food.
During World War II, food preservation and storage became even more important as countries had to ration food and supplies for their troops and citizens. The government encouraged citizens to grow their own food, preserve it and store it in case of shortages. The Victory Gardens program in the United States, for example, encouraged citizens to plant gardens and preserve the food they grew for themselves and for their communities.
As modern technology advanced, new methods of food preservation were developed. Freeze-drying, vacuum sealing, and dehydrating food became popular options for survival food storage in the 60s and 70s, as they could preserve food for long periods of time while maintaining its nutritional value.
Today, with the rise of prepping and emergency preparedness, survival food storage has become even more important. People have become more aware of the need to have a reliable source of food in case of emergencies such as natural disasters, power outages, and economic downturns. The use of long-lasting food storage products, such as MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) and dehydrated meals, has become increasingly popular as they are designed to provide essential nutrients and energy.
The history of survival food storage has been a constant evolution throughout human history. From ancient times to modern times, humans have had to find ways to preserve and store food for times of scarcity and emergency. Today, with the rise of prepping and emergency preparedness, survival food storage has become more important than ever before. It is crucial to have a reliable source of food in case of emergencies and to ensure that we can survive and thrive during difficult times.
Which Survival Food Storage Products Taste the Best?
The taste of survival food storage products can vary depending on the brand and the specific product. However, some brands and products are known for their better taste compared to others. We prefer the following brands for taste: ReadyWise & Mountain House.
Freeze-dried foods, for example, can taste very similar to the fresh version of the food because the freezing process preserves the taste and texture of the food. Brands like Mountain House and Backpacker's Pantry are well known for producing freeze-dried meals that taste great.
Dehydrated foods can also taste good, but it can depend on the food and the preservation method used. Some brands like Augason Farms are known for producing high-quality dehydrated foods that retain their flavor.
MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) are also known to taste decent, they are designed to provide essential nutrients and energy and they are often used by military and emergency responders. Brands like Wornick and Sopakco are known for producing MREs that taste good.
It's worth noting that taste can be subjective, and what one person finds delicious, another might not. It's also worth noting that the taste of survival food storage products, may not be the same as fresh food and it's important to consider the nutritional value, shelf life, ease of preparation, and other factors when choosing survival food storage products.
