FOODS YOU SHOULD HAVE IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

I know that this is a little "off topic" from the blog, but I found this so interesting when I came across it. Since natural disaster can occur at any time, it never heurst to be prepared in an emergency. Most people think of the staples(batteries, candles, flashlight and so forth) but there are certain foods that the food scientist at Washington State University say you should keep in your pantry for these emergencies.
The following items are good for several reason, one of the biggest reasons is that they have lengthy expiration dates, so you can stash them away for long periods of time. Just make sure to make a list of everything in your stockpile and check expiration dates every 6 to 12 months to keep things fresh. And don’t forget to have a can opener on hand at all times--all that food won’t be of any use if you can’t open it.

LIST OF FOODS TO KEEP FOR EMERGENCIES:
• Peanut butter A great source of energy, peanut butter is chock-full of healthful fats and protein. Unless the jar indicates otherwise, you don’t have to refrigerate after opening.If you don't like peanut butter, there is also almond butter, but all of this is moot if you are allergic to nuts :P

• Whole-wheat crackers Crackers are a good replacement for bread and make a fine substitute in sandwiches. Due to their higher fat content, whole-wheat or whole-grain crackers have a shorter shelf life than their plain counterparts (check the box for expiration dates), but the extra fiber pays off when you’re particularly hungry. Consider vacuum-packing your crackers to prolong their freshness. I suggest that handheld pump one that doesn't require batteries, and is located in the aisle with the foil and zip lock baggies.

• Nuts and trail mixes Stock up on these high-energy foods—they’re convenient for snacking and healthful. Look for vacuum-packed containers, which prevent the nuts from oxidizing and losing their freshness.

• Cereal Choose multigrain cereals that are individually packaged so they don’t become stale after opening.

• Granola bars and power bars Healthy and filling, these portable snacks usually stay fresh for at least six months. Plus, they’re an excellent source of carbohydrates. “You can get more energy from carbohydrates without [eating] tons of food,” Andress says.

• Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins In the absence of fresh fruit, these healthy snacks offer potassium and dietary fiber. “Dried fruits provide you with a significant amount of nutrients and calories,” Swanson says.

• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey Generally lasting at least two years in the pantry, canned meats provide essential protein. Vacuum-packed pouches have a shorter shelf life but will last at least six months, says Diane Van, manager of the USDA meat and poultry hotline.

• Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas When the real deal isn’t an option, canned varieties can provide you with essential nutrients.

• Canned soups and chili Soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can and provide a variety of nutrients. Look for low-sodium options.

• Bottled water Try to stock at least a three-day supply--you need at least one gallon per person per day. “A normally active person should drink at least a half gallon of water each day,” Andress says. “The other half gallon is for adding to food and washing.”

• Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade The electrolytes and carbohydrates in these drinks will help you rehydrate and replenish fluid when water is scarce.

• Powdered milk Almost all dairy products require refrigeration, so stock this substitute for an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D when fresh milk isn’t an option.

• Sugar, salt, and pepper If you have access to a propane or charcoal stove, you may be doing some cooking. A basic supply of seasonings and sweeteners will improve the flavor of your food, both fresh and packaged.

• Multivitamins Supplements will help replace the nutrients you would have consumed on a normal diet.

So take a look in your pantry and see if you are prepare for an emergency. It doesn't have to be a natural disaster to be an emergency, it could be a local power outage, or something small that makes normal living hard.For more information and the whole article go to Real Simple Stockpile. While you're there, take a look at "How to prepare for emergency"