Emergency Food Storage: The 7-Day Supply Guide
A 7-day food supply covers the most common disruption scenarios: storms, blackouts, supply bottlenecks. The rule: foods you already eat, no cooking needed, rotate before expiry.
Calorie target
Plan 2,000–2,400 kcal per person per day. Under-planning is the most common mistake — stress burns more calories.
Best foods (no-cook)
Canned fish/beans, energy bars, nut butter, dried fruit, crackers, UHT milk, instant meals needing only hot water.
Water for prep
Keep extra water beyond drinking supply: soups and instant meals need it. 1 L per person per day for cooking on top of 3 L drinking.
Rotation system
Eat from your emergency stock, replace what you use (FIFO). Check expiry dates every 6 months — link it to a fixed date like clock change.
Storage
Cool, dark, dry. Decant open bulk packs into airtight containers. Keep a 2-day subset in a grab-bag in case you must leave.
Extended scenarios (2+ weeks)
Add bulk staples: rice, oats, lentils, canned vegetables. These cost cents per meal and store for years.