Emergency Food Supply Checklist

Published 2026-10-28

Storms, power outages and other emergencies can make it hard to get to a store. Public preparedness guidance, such as Ready.gov, suggests keeping at least several days of non-perishable food and water for everyone in your household. Canned foods are an easy foundation because they are shelf-stable, fully cooked in many cases, and familiar to eat. Use this checklist to build a simple supply.

Ready-to-eat proteins

Choose proteins that can be eaten without cooking: canned tuna, canned chicken breast, Vienna sausages, SPAM and chili are all fully cooked. Pull-top cans are easiest, but keep a manual can opener in your kit just in case. Peanut butter is another protein that needs no refrigeration before opening. Aim for a variety so meals do not get repetitive over several days.

Soups, pasta and meals

Ready-to-serve soups, canned ravioli and canned pasta can be eaten warm or at room temperature if needed. Condensed soups need added water, so factor that into your water supply or favor ready-to-serve cans. Chunky soups and chili with beans are filling, which matters when you are cleaning up after a storm.

Vegetables, fruit and beans

Canned corn, green beans, black beans, baked beans and fruit in juice add variety and fiber. Fruit packed in juice provides liquid and sweetness, and beans are filling and inexpensive. Include a few comfort foods such as crackers, which pair with almost everything. Remember any family members with special diets, infants or pets.

How much and how to rotate

Plan for at least three meals per person per day for the number of days you want to cover, and store water separately. Keep food in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Write the purchase date on cans and use a first-in, first-out system: eat older cans in your regular meals and replace them with new ones. Throw away any can that is bulging, leaking, rusted or badly dented.