Stocking up for Emergencies

You never can predict when a natural disaster will strike, so it is always best to be prepared.  Mealtime.org offers the following tips and tricks to ensure your pantry is stocked with the essentials to help your family in the event of an emergency.

• According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), you should have enough food and water to last each person in your family at least three days.
• Remember to store a variety of foods in your pantry, including canned fruits, vegetables, meats, beans and seafood.
• Ready-to-eat cereal, crackers, trail mix and dried fruits are also helpful.  Be sure they are stored in waterproof containers in case of flooding.
• Canned foods are perfect items for emergencies.  They have a long shelf-life, are waterproof and do not require cooking.
• Look for canned items with a pop-top lid, but be sure to have a manual can opener nearby.
• When stocking your pantry, buy smaller cans that can be eaten in one sitting.  Once opened, canned foods are perishable, and you may not have the means to keep them cool.

Just because the electricity is out doesn't mean you have to go to bed on an empty stomach.  Mealtime.org has some nutritious recipes that are convenient and delicious. 

Hearty Beet Salad

Black Bean and Avocado Salad

Chicken and Black Bean Garnachas

Spicy Pea Dip

Black Bean Tostadas

Tuna Ceviche on Tostadas

Print out the Emergency Pantry Checklist so you know what to have on-hand.