| 1. Food Bucket | 2. Biscuits & Gravy | 3. MRE Ready-To-Eat |
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Survival food or food for an emergency is something that most of do not even give a second thought. We like the idea of having a steady gear supply of all those goodies from our local supermarket.
Disaster can strike any time, and it could be due to a natural calamity, a pandemic or war, or any other reasons.
The first and foremost basic need that gets hit is the food supply chain, and the local supermarket will soon run out of supplies, leaving you high and dry. The solution lies in being a smart prepper and shop for the best survival food well ahead in time and keep your pantry wells stocked.
CHECK THE TOP SURVIVAL FOODS NOW!If you have little clue as to how to go about it, well, you are in luck as you are just on the right page to get complete information regarding survival food. Go through the info on this page and learn about different kinds of survival foods before hit the market to purchase one.
Top 40 Best Survival Foods 2021
1. Mountain House Food Bucket
Mountain House has been a leader in making survival meals that have always been the premier choice of campers and backpackers. This survival food is not only good for emergency situations, but you can also carry them along with you while camping or any other outdoor activities.
The freeze-dried meals are the perfect choice for the survival food, as per the survival experts because of the reliability, nutrition, and delicious flavor. Mountain House Classic Bucket is a food that people can trust, and it is so easy and simple to prepare. All you need to do just add water and the food is ready to eat!
Each bucket carries 12 total pouches comprise of beef stroganoff with noodles, beef stew, granola with milk & blueberries, noodles & chicken, and more. It has a life of 30-years and thus perfect for long term storage.
Pros
- Easy, simple and fast to preparer
- Nutritionally dense and flavorful
- Great for emergency food storage
- 12 total pouches with 29 servings
- 30-year shelf life
Cons
- A bit heavier
2. Mountain House Biscuits & Gravy
Mountain House Biscuits & Gravy is just the best survival food that you have been searching for. Now, there is no need to buy that boring freeze-dried, and once you have tasted the biscuits & gravy from Mountain House, you will simply feel as if you are having home-cooked meals with fresh flavors.
Be confident about emergency preparedness & survival once you have a couple of packs of Mountain House Biscuits & Gravy. All you need to do is just add water, and there is no fuss, and your meals are ready.
With a 30-year taste guarantee, you can never go wrong with these products that boast of the longest proven shelf life in the industry. Each pouch carries two servings and is vacuum-sealed.
Pros
- Light and nutritious
- Just-add-water convenience
- Ready in less than 10 minutes
- 30 Year taste guarantee
- Vacuum sealed pouches
Cons
- 2 servings per pouch can be less
3. MRE Ready-To-Eat Meals
Each meal in MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) Boxes includes water-activated flameless heater, beverage powders, dessert, snack, and accessory pack. The meals are prepared as per military specifications. The case weighs approximately 21 lbs. You get about 1250 calories per meal, and there are 12 meals per case.
The food is delicious, and there is a ton of great food and flavors packed in there. This is just the perfect option for emergencies, but you will love to use and serve them because of the different menu options. It is a great box to carry with you during your camping and fishing trips.
Pros
- Assorted packages with different menu
- 12 meals per case
- 1250 calories per meal
- Genuine military spec
Cons
- FRE produces an unpleasant odor
4. Mountain House Biscuits & Gravy Freeze Dried Food
If you are planning a trip outdoors, then this ready to eat food is something that you should add to your list. Buy this freeze-dried food, which is a must for emergencies, as well as enjoying delicious breakfast. With all the nutrients and freshness locked in, each meal is going to be fresh and flavorful.
Enjoy a hearty meal of creamy pork sausage gravy and fluffy buttermilk biscuits with your family on a camping trip. With no added preservatives or artificial flavors or colors,
All you need to do is just add water and your food is ready within minutes. You can eat straight from the pouch for an easier eating experience and skip the task of dishwashing.
The pouches are lightweight & portable, and you can carry them just about anywhere and enjoy them anytime. This is perfect for great emergency food storage & survival and is guaranteed for quality and taste.
Pros
- Fresh and nutritious
- Quick prep
- No artificial flavors or colors
- No preservatives
- Lightweight & portable
- Great for emergency food
Cons
- Could have more can have some vegetables
5. Augason Farms Freeze Dried & Sliced Strawberries
Augason Farms Strawberries are another choice for the excellent survival food. This is just the right food you end for emergencies and survival as well as camping. Those dried and sliced strawberries are packed with Vitamin C and can be enjoyed daily as a delicious snack as well!
Each pack carries 18 servings, amounting to 630 Calories, and boasts of 30-year shelf life. They make a great addition to granola and any other favorite recipes you fancy.
This is an ultimate nutrition-packed convenience. The packs are easy to carry and lightweight and mess-free and are simply great for outdoors. The food is packaged in accordance with the standards and is a certified gluten-free product.
Pros
- Ready to eat
- 18 servings and 630 Calories
- Gluten-free product
- 30-year shelf life
- Nutrition-packed convenience
Cons
- Will need a large can opener
6. Wild Planet Pink Salmon
Protein is something that must be a part of your diet, and when you are planning to buy survival food, then you must not ignore this component.
The wild pink salmon from the Wild Planet makes for a super choice for a healthy lifestyle. It is loaded with protein, omega 3, vitamin D. Thus making it a perfect survival food for you and a great choppier to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
You will love the fresh-from-the-sea flavor of the canned fish that carries a fresh taste and offers high-quality nutrition.
The Alaskan salmon comes from the icy waters and is caught by local fishing families who believe in preserving natural habitats and fish populations.
It will work as the nutritional powerhouse for you in case of any emergency and provide you with the flavors that you crave for. With those all-natural flavorful juices, you sure are getting a quality fish here.
Pros
- Pack of 12
- Delicious and nutritious
- Protein, Omega 3, Vitamin D
- All-natural flavorful juices
- Sustainable fishing method
- Gluten-free & Non-GMO verified
Cons
- A bit expensive
7. Mountain House Beef Stroganoff
Well, it is time to upgrade your survival kit and shop for the freeze-dried Mountain House meals, which are not only long-lasting but delicious too.
Trusted for over 50 years by the U.S. Military, the Beef Stroganoff with noodles is well known for their dependability and great taste. With the longest proven shelf life, you can count on these products for long term storage.
All you need to do is just add some water and enjoy the tender beef, noodles, and mushrooms covered in a rich sour cream sauce. Now you can say that freeze-dried need not be boring and can enjoy the fresh flavors anytime and anywhere.
After all, it is so easy and simple to prepare these meals, and all you need to do is just open the can or pouch and just add water. Let is stand for about 10 minutes and you are ready to go.
Pros
- Long-lasting and delicious
- 30-year taste guarantee
- Awesome emergency food
- Easy to prepare
Cons
- Bland taste
8. SOS Food Labs SOScin1pk Rations
Another great option of best survival food is SOS Food Labs SOScin1pk S.O.S. rations emergency. The ready to eat flavorful food bar comes in the great cinnamon flavor and carries higher energy.
The SOS emergency food rations are Coast guard appropriate. Thanks to the non-thirst provoking formula that offers maximum survival capacity.
This is an energy-rich food that will provide you 3600 kcal each. These have been designed to withstand life in emergency situations.
So, you get nine delicious bars, and each provides 410 calories per bar. Every person can have three food bars per day. These bars are great for short term survival situations.
Pros
- Fortified ready-to-eat
- Perfect emergency food
- Approved for a 5-year shelf
- High energy value
Cons
- Coconut bars are very sweet
9. Survivor Industries Mainstay Rations
If you are looking for perfect survival food, then you must choose this food product by Survivor Industries. The ready to eat mainstay emergency food rations offer 5-year shelf life. There are nine pre-measured meals in each package carrying 400 calories, and thus, there are no messy preparations.
It is a great choice for an active stress situation where one needs higher emergency consumption. The emergency food is enriched with vitamins and minerals and contains no cholesterol or tropical oils.
As the rations are about an inch thick, it easy to bite off them. You can easily buy the emergency food rations and store them in a plastic container in your daily carry bag.
Customers really like the product as it is the right choice for an emergency to-go bag, and the taste is really good. However, many prefer a bit of water while chewing the cookie.
Pros
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals
- 5-year shelf life
- Pleasant flavors
- Great taste and texture
- 1200 calories per day
Cons
- Package is not re-sealable
10. Peak Refuel Freeze Dried
Carrying an amazing taste, the freeze-dried high protein food, a product of Peak Refuel contains high-quality ingredients. What you get is an appetizing and nutritious meal that is flavorful too.
This is not only a great survival food, but at the same time, it can also be used by campers and backpackers. You can prepare the meal within ten minutes and eat it in the pouch.
Every meal contains 100% real meat and offers 49 grams of protein, and this is a great combination to tide over any emergency or conquer any adventure.
The meat is sourced from trusted suppliers and are USDA inspected. It means you can rely on the superior quality and enjoy a meal with a natural taste and texture and is loaded with important nutrition.
Pros
- Superior quality
- Appetizing and nutritious meal
- Non-GMO ingredients
- USDA inspected
- Easy to prepare
Cons
- A bit sweet taste for some
11. Augason Farms 30-Day Emergency Food
Exigencies are uninvited and if you are planning to prepare for days of emergencies, then you need to have the right products with you.
When we talk about survival, then food is the key part of it. If you are looking for survival food and supply kit that will last you for a month, then check out Augason Farms 30-Day emergency food supply for 1 person.
The 8. 5-Gallon pail is watertight and easy to carry and transport. The QSS-Certified food supply offers you on an average of about 1, 854 calories per day and carries a shelf life of about 25 years.
Augason Farms removes all that guesswork out of daily meal preparation and comes up with his unique Meal Planner. The food is very easy to prepare and gets ready within minutes and is just perfect for any emergency situation.
Enjoy options like cheesy broccoli rice, chicken flavored rice, vegetable chicken soup, macaroni and cheese, banana chips and more.
Those wide range of products from Augason Farms are sure to meet your emergency supply needs. All-in-all it’s a great food choice which lasts for 30 days, so it’s a must have for all those who are planning to prepare emergency kit.
Pros
- Great variety of emergency foods
- Easy to carry and prepare
- 1, 854 calories per day
- QSS-Certified food
- 30 day and 45-day meal planner
Cons
- Lack of quality control
12. Mountain House 14-Day Emergency Food
In case of emergency, one of the first things that you would need is the instant supply of food. Mountain House brings you this 14-day emergency food pack which is not only packed with energy but at the same time. it is scrumptious.
Enjoy delicious Mountain House meals every day. While these meals are just perfect for long term storage, and serve as survival food, you would like to have them every day. After all, there is so much variety and they taste just awesome.
What you get here is a two-week food supply with just-add-water meals. Enjoy comforting meals wherever you want and whoever.
Mountain House 14-day emergency food kit is lightweight and compact and offers verities like Beef Stroganoff, Biscuits and Gravy, Pasta Primavera and more. The pack has enough food supply to make 100 servings.
You can take the kit easily for your camping or a long trip. Enjoy peace of mind as the food supply comes with a 30-year taste guarantee, and that means you can think of long-term storage. Get about 1,800 calories per day and about 100 total servings
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- two-week food supply
- Ease of use
- 1,800 calories per day
- 100 total servings
- 30-year taste guarantee
Cons
- Go bad in prolonged exposure to temperatures
13. Captain Dave’s 12 Military MRE Entrees
Well, if you are planning to stock up entrée food, then this is the right choice for you. Captain Dave’s entrée food packs are loaded with nutrient and offer an amazing taste. There is a selection of chicken and beef dishes, and the menu selection can vary.
The twelve-pack of MRE Entrees comes from a government-approved manufacturer. Each entree is from fresh and recent production and weighs approximately 8 ounces.
You get a five-year shelf life with Captain Dave’s MRE entrees, and they might include beef stew, beef taco, black beans & potatoes, chicken with rice, vegetable stew with beef, macaroni and beef, pinto bean stew, pasta w/marinara sauce, chicken fajitas& veggie crumbles and a lot more.
The standard package comes with a random assortment. Customers are very satisfied with their purchase and recommend the food supply to others.
Pros
- Easy to carry and prepare
- Government-approved manufacturer
- Fresh and recent production
- Five-year shelf life
- Great supply of emergency food
Cons
- Price is rather high
14. Sure-Pak MRE Meals
Sure-Pak 12 Meal case is another great option for those looking for the survival food. Each of those 12 Meal cases carries 12 individual meal kits and with vegetarian options. There is an entrée, side dish, wheat bread, dessert item, and beverage powder.
There is more which this pack has to offer you, as you also get a spoon, napkin, wet nap, coffee, creamer, sugar, salt and pepper. Enjoy a great menu that boasts of beef ravioli, cheese omelet, cheese tortellini, beef stew, chili macaroni, grilled chicken, meatloaf with gravy, and more.
The food kit also includes a flameless Heater, and no refrigeration is required up to 5 years. Customers find them well-packaged and high-quality and perfect as a food disaster kit. Thus it’s a perfect thing that you can add to your survival list.
Pros
- 12 meals per case
- Wide variety in the menu
- Great for emergency kits
- Flameless ration heater
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Expensive to buy
15. S.O.S. Food Labs Food Bar
Are you looking for affordable and long-lasting emergency food? Well, then stock up your pantry with S.O.S. rations emergency food bar that come with a five-year shelf life and are very affordable. These are perfect emergency food rations, and each pack carries nine food bars and a total of 3600 calories.
These food packs are U.S. Coast Guard approved. They can withstand hot and cold temperatures, and hence, are a great choice as survival food.
All nine food bars taste delicious, and one can buy them for the whole family. The concept behind making these bars is to offer the nutrition the body needs and the right caloric intake for survival. The consolidated prepper food is compact and ready to eat and long-lasting.
Pros
- Perfect emergency food
- Nine food bars
- 3600 calories
- Ready to eat and long-lasting
- Meets IMO recommendations
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Partially hydrogenated soy ingredients
16. Datrex Emergency Water Pouch
Your survival food kit is incomplete without emergency water, and the DATREX emergency water pouches make for the seamless choice.
These purified water pouches are extremely compact and lightweight and are available in 12 sachets of 125 ml each. As these sachets are packed individually, there is a lower potential for any damage, and that makes them ideal for storage.
It is made with superior packaging materials; you can count on optimum durability from the Canadian Coast guard approved emergency water kit. The heavily purified water will last you for five years, at least. So, go ahead and keep as much water as possible as this is an excellent product.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Ideal for storage
- 12 sachets of 125 ml each
- Superior packaging materials
- Approved by Canadian Coast guard
- 5-years shelf life
Cons
- Water does not come out that easily
17. Survival Ind Mainstay Emergency Drinking Water
An essential item that should be in your survival food kit is water, and one good option is Mainstay Emergency Drinking Water that boasts of 5-year shelf-life. Each case carries 60 packs of 4.224 ounces each, and the product is U.S. Coast Guard approved for 5-year storage.
Decontaminated by reverse osmosis, the quality of the water exceeds U.S. Pharmacopoeia standards, thus making it fit for drinking. There no risk of bacterial contamination.
It is easy to carry and story those supple trilaminate foil pouches that come with durable packaging and can withstand extreme temperatures. There is no special storage required to store these cases of water, and the price is reasonable.
Pros
- No special storage required
- Purified by reverse osmosis
- No bacterial contamination
- U.S. Coast Guard approved
- 5-year storage
Cons
- Carries a little bit of taste
18. Datrex Emergency Food Bar
If you are looking for buying high-energy food that lasts longer and provides all the nutrients, then you must choose the Datrex Emergency Food Bar pack. It is a value pack that contains 180 bars, and each bar provides 200 calories. Thus, but you get here is an impressive 3600 calories per pack!
The compact and lightweight pack are easy to carry and store and thus a must for your survival and disaster kit. The items have been tabletized and sub packaged for easy storage and use. USCG approved, the emergency food bar pack carries a 5-year shelf life.
What is good about these food bars is that they are not thirst-provoking and will be perfect for those emergency days when you need a quick surge of calories.
This is something you can easily pack and eat on the go. It is recommended to eat 1 bar every 4 hours, and they are surprisingly decent to eat and carry a faint taste of coconut.
Pros
- Ready to eat
- High energy value
- 3600 calories per pack
- USCG approved
- 5-year shelf life
Cons
- A bit crumbly to use
19. Future Essentials Sailor Pilot Bread
If you are looking for quick food, then you must consider buying the sailor pilot bread. The Future Essentials Sailor pilot bread is the ideal choice for snacking or enjoying with soups or casseroles. These lightweight foods are simply great as pilot emergency kits as there is no need to add any water or making any cooking preparation.
All you need to do is just open the lid and enjoy. Pilot Bread is also known by other names like Ship’s Biscuit and Hardtack.
There are 12 crackers per can, and the product is known to carry a 30-year shelf life. The pilot bread tastes great with peanut butter and cheese or enjoys it with scrambled eggs and bacon, or you can simply dip it in soup or coffee.
Go ahead and try it with many other recipes. As the bread comes with a 100% money-back guarantee, you can enjoy peace of mind and get a full refund in case you are not happy with the purchase.
Pros
- Small lightweight package
- 12 crackers per can
- 30-year shelf life
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Durable, storage-food option
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Expensive based on the caloric value
20. Wise Company Ultimate Preparedness Food Pack
Prepare yourself for the emergency situation with this food pack. Get the ultimate food preparedness pack from the Wise Company that offers you the complete variety for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even desserts, and drinks. The complete survival food kit offers 124 serving and with ready-to-eat food that is conveniently stored in four serving pouches.
You can easily store the kit in your home or vehicle for any emergency situations. They can be easily carried for your hiking and camping trips as well.
The food is easy to prepare, and all you need to do is just add water, and within 15 minutes, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. These emergency foods are designed to last a long time and carry a 25-year shelf life. Thus, the food will stay safe and secure and ready to eat whenever you need them the most.
Pros
- Complete survival food kit
- Conveniently stored
- Easy to prepare
- No cooking necessary
- A 25-year shelf life
Cons
- More variety could be added
21. Mainstay Food Rations 2400 Calorie Bars
The 2400-calorie emergency food calorie bars from Mainstay is another excellent option for those looking for good quality survival food.
Each bar carries pre-measured and divided segments of 400 calories each, and those individualized portions make for mess-free consumption, unlike other bars. The non-thirst provoking emergency food carries a pleasant lemon flavor that is enjoyed by all.
With no cholesterol or tropical oils, these emergency food calorie bars are enriched with vitamins and minerals. The food is also perfect for those who have any kind of food allergies.
These bars are Kosher and contain no meat products. You can store them for a longer-term as the food bars carry a 5-year shelf life, and they can be stored in high temperatures.
Pros
- 2400 Calorie Bars
- Pack of 3
- Vitamins & Minerals
- Non-thirst provoking
- Perfect emergency supplement
Cons
- Not as tasty as a regular bar
- Dry, dense, and a bit crumbly
22. Mainstay Calorie Bars
The Mainstay line of emergency food bars carry longer shelf life and are packed with calories and enriched with vitamins & minerals.
These are highly energy-rich food, something that you would need in case of emergencies. These 2400-calorie bars are packaged in tough and durable wraps and come in a pack of three. These bars are ready to eat, and all you need to do is unwrap the bar.
You can store them for a longer time as they carry a 5-year shelf life, and these emergency foods can withstand higher temperatures.
You will be surprised by the good taste, and it can work as your daily snack if you want to. For the price and value, it is tough to beat these bars considering their size and weight. Just replace them every five years.
Pros
- Ready to Eat
- Pack of 3
- 2400 Calorie Bars
- Packed with Vitamins & Minerals
- Meets Coast Guard standards
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Should be individually wrapped
23. Life Gear Food, Water & Thermal Blanket
Everybody needs safety and protection in case of any emergency situation, and this is where the Life Gear Emergency kit steps in. It offers the basic essential you will need food, water, and warmth.
The kit carries complete protection of a family of four and carries a 3-day supply of water and food and carries a 5-year shelf life. In addition to the food and water, the kit also has a thermal blanket to keep you warm and safe.
This kit is US Coast Guard approved and is made in the USA. With a kit like this in your hand, you can have peace of mind wherever you go. You can stereo it easily at the home, office, or in your car or carry it with you for camping or hiking. This is indeed the starter emergency kit for anyone thinking of becoming a food prepper.
Pros
- Starter emergency kit
- Food, water, and warmth
- Complete protection of a family
- Instant portability
- 5-year shelf life
Cons
- Poor customer care
24. S.O.S Rations 3600 Calorie Food Bar
One of the first choice among customers looking for excellent quality survival food is the S.O.S. Rations Emergency Food Bar. These are great not just for any disaster preparedness but also for backpacking and biking. The nutrient-rich foods offer 3600 Calories and are best to provide you with a complete diet that includes fats, carbs, and protein your body needs.
The emergency food bar tastes like a coconut cookie and is nutritious, and the main ingredients are wheat, coconut, soybean. Each pack carries nine individually wrapped wafers of 400-calorie.
Made in the U.S.A., the product is U.S. Coast Guard approved and can be stored for long and at higher temperatures. Typically, three food bars are enough per person per day.
Pros
- Tasty and nutritious
- 3600 Calorie Food Bar
- Made in the USA
- U.S. Coast Guard approved
- 5-Year Shelf Life
Cons
- Taste is bearable
25. Sopakco Fresh MRE with Heaters
When the emergency situation arises, then you have to be ready to face it. If you have the 16 Pack w/Ration Heaters from Fresh MR E, you can be confident of being ready for any disaster and avert any interruption in your food supply.
The ready to eat meals are fully cooked, and each MRE case contains sixteen meals that are high on nutrition but low on sodium. With each meal, you get about 1,050-1,200, and you can enjoy those hot meals anytime, anywhere, and without any need to add boiling water or a stove.
You get a full and complete menu with every Pack that includes crackers, bread, jams or jellies, candy, sodium entrée, heater, and spoon. You’ll get at least 1 serving of chili macaroni, penne pasta, vegetarian lasagna, cheese tortellini, beef ravioli, and spaghetti each menu in the case of 16. So, don’t waste time and add this pack to your survival kit.
Pros
- Ready to eat meals
- 1,050-1,200 calorie per meal
- Wide range of choices
- Flameless ration heaters
- 5-year shelf life
- Made in the U.S.
Cons
- MREs cost a bit higher
26. SOS Food Lab Food Bar Packets
Emergency food supply is a great addition to your survival kit. But before buying one, you must check whether it is the right product or not. This food bar packets by SOS Food lab is U.S. Coast Guard Approved. The SOS Food Lab emergency food bars are listed among the best food for survival.
These are energy-rich food packets that offer 2400 calories, thus meeting the energy requirements of an individual. You can find individually wrapped food bars in a water/vapor-proof material. That means you can enjoy amess free food right on the go.
The survival food can last for five years and meets the current IMO and Canadian DOT requirements for survival food. The compact and fortified survival food is nutritious and specifically formulated to give you that balanced daily diet you need.
The non-thirst provoking formula is not only high on nutrition but delicious too. This is indeed a great food for emergencies and one that you can easily carry in your bag or pack in your emergency bag for survival.
Pros
- Excellent flavor with a light texture
- 2400 calorie food bars
- 400 calories in each bar
- Individually wrapped
- U.S. Coast Guard Approved
- 5-year shelf-life
Cons
- A bit expensive
27. Wise Company Dried Fruit and Snack Bucket
Are you looking for emergency food that is loaded with dry fruits and fruits, then Wise Company’s emergency dry fruit bucket is something you must consider.
The multi-use ready to eat food can be stored at home or carried with you in your car for trekking and camping trips. It is easy to pack and carry those packets as they are individually wrapped. With each bucket, you get 120 servings of freeze-dried fruit and snacks.
With 20-year shelf life means you can think in the long term when buying these products and enjoy a peace of mind when maintaining preparedness kits.
The meals are easy to prepare, and all you need to do is add water and wait for about 12 – 15 minutes to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal. You can simply have those meals whenever you need them, and all you need to do is simply grab and go!
This bucket is also good for those who often go out for camping and hiking activities. So, grab one of these and enjoy complete peace of mind.
Pros
- Multi-use ready to eat food
- Individually wrapped pouches
- Freeze-dried fruit and snacks
- No cooking necessary
- Convenient, easy to store
- With a 20-year shelf life
Cons
- The amount of food within the package is a bit less
28. The Survival Tabs Food For Kayaking
The Survival Tabs are made with highly concentrated formula and provide all the essential vitamins & minerals your body needs.
You will need the highest quality protein, especially when you find yourself in a survival situation. Thanks to the special formula, 97% of the protein and calorie content gets absorbed by the body and is readily available to repair and replacement of worn-out muscles and nerves.
This survival tabs come with a shelf-life 25 years; you can safely stock them for a long time and do not have to worry about the loss of vitamin or food value over the years.
Gluten-Free and Non-GMO, this is the best possible nutrition you can carry easily because of the small size and volume. One bottle can easily last up to 15 days and carries 180 Tablets. However, consumption can vary from person to person.
Pros
- Highest quality protein tabs
- Gluten-free and Non-GMO
- Easy storage
- Butterscotch flavored
- 25 years shelf life
Cons
- Low in fiber
29. SOS Food Lab 96 Packs Packaged Water
It is said that a person can survive because The pack contains 96 pack of 4.225 oz. bottled water, a product of SOS Food Lab, excels when it comes to the durable packaging and potable drinking water.
This is going to be your first need when you face extreme conditions, and your survival is at stake. So, make sure to include these bottled water package in your survival kit.
SOS Food Lab bottled water carries a 5-year shelf life. It comes in an easy to open container and is very durable in extreme temperatures/ As it is UV sterilized, uses reverse osmosis and ozonized; it is triple purified.
Pros
- Durable packaging
- Rigorously drop tested
- UV sterilized and ozonized
- Easy to open and use
Cons
- Leakage in some packets
30. Prep-Right Food Tablets
If you are looking for survival food tablets, then you must consider investing in this survival food tablets. These tablets can last for 10 years. These are made in the USA; the chewable tablets are Non-Gluten and NON-GMO and perfect as your emergency nutrition aid.
When you consume these tablets, you get your daily quota of essential vitamins, calories, and minerals that is essential to preserve your strength and endurance. Do carry them for your next outdoor adventure, and you must have them in case of a survival situation like hurricanes, tsunamis, and floods.
Vanilla flavored, each pack carries 24 tablets in a lightweight, portable pouch, which is easy to carry and store. These tablets can be taken every hour, but you have well-planned rationing.
Pros
- 24 chewable tablets
- Non-Gluten and NON-GMO
- 10-year extended shelf life
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Taste could be better
31. Metro Survival Pack 6 Day Survival Pack
If you want to add food and water supply to your survival kit, then this is the right product for you. The Emergency 6 Day Survival Pack comes with food and water and is a must-have product for all those thinking of stocking up survival food. If you still don’t have these in your emergency bag, it is time to think.
The 6-day survival pack contains three mainstay emergency food bars with 2400-calorie and 12 tight sterilized water packets weighing 4.225 oz.
Coast guard approved, the survival pack carries 5-year shelf life and is a great choice for emergency needs or when in a disaster. The food and water are enough to sustain you; in case you are preparing for any kind of survival planning.
Pros
- 6-day survival pack
- 2400-calorie
- Coast guard approved
- 5-year shelf life
Cons
- Cost can be a concern
32. USGI Industries Xmre 1300XT
These X MRE meals are easy to store, carry, and ready to eat. This is a complete food pack that contains, entrée, main dishes, condiments and food accessories. It also comes with a flameless room heater.
The freshly packaged meals are prepared with high-quality ingredients and are properly cooked and full of flavors. Each pack provides 1,300-1,500 Calories per meal.
Now you can enjoy hot food anytime and anywhere as it is so convenient to get the meal ready. The XMRE blue line fulfills the essential requirements of government institutions, educational institutions, public service entities, along with emergency preparedness programs.
The meals are ideal, not just a survival food but for camping, hiking, fishing, and much more. Put these on your list of survival food.
Pros
- 12 meals per case
- Wide variety of delicious meals
- 1,300-1,500 Calories
- flameless ration heater
- Easy to prepare
Cons
- Packaging not proper
33. Ozark Outdoorz Xmre Go Bag
Another perfect emergency addition is the Outdoorz XMRE GO Bag that comes with 24 Genuine Military MREs. The pack comes with 24 meals that include the main entrée and various snacks and sides.
Some snacks include Jelly or Cheese spread, snack bars, crackers, and more. Just check the photos on the products that tell you about the meals as XMRE does not include the same products. This is an emergency food that one can grab and go.
As the main compartment of the Ruck has plenty of space, you can add other sustainment pouches and essentials.
Pros
- 24 Genuine Military MREs
- Great assortment
- Different menu
- Spacious Ruck
Cons
- Heater non-functional
34. Survivor Industries LaunchPro Food, Water & Thermal Blanket
Add this complete package of survivor kit to your LaunchPro Emergency kit comes complete with food, water, and a blanket. It is US Coast Guard-approved; the kit carries a 3-day supply of food and water and has a 5-year shelf life. The food is nutritious and declivous while the blanket keeps you warm.
As it is light and compact, it is instantly portable can be easily stored in your home, car, or for exploring nature. The Emergency kit can last easily for three days for one person and offers a total of 3600 calories, and you will love it for that pleasant lemon flavor.
Go ahead and add the emergency kit to your existing supplies and as a good starter. You can store it for longer-term, and the food is non-thirst provoking. So, it is a great purchase that you can make.
Pros
- Food, water & thermal blanket
- 3-day supply of food
- High in vitamins and minerals
- US Coast Guard approved
- 5-year shelf life
- Instant portability
Cons
- A bit too expensive
35. Xmre 1300XT 12 Case
If you are looking for long-lasting survival food, that also offers high nutrient value, then you must consider investing in this food. XMRE ready to eat meals are brand new and freshly packed, and the 12-case kit offers 1300 cal , per meal.
It comes with a shelf life of 5 years or more; it means that you can buy these for long terms storage. The kit can last for one person for about a week, and the meals can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere.
There are non-veg and vegetarian entrees as well as regular crackers, bread and snacks like dry fruit mix, nut raisin mix, and others. You also get spreads like fruit jellies, fruit jams, and peanut butter and beverages. As for the desserts, enjoy wet packed fruit, pound cakes, or instant puddings.
Apart from the above, you get a hot beverage bag, a moist towelette, a waterproof outer bag, and a flameless heater.
Pros
- 12-case kit
- 1300 cal , per meal
- Shelf life of 5 years
- Easy to prepare
- Flameless heater
Cons
- Menu a bit bland
36. Wise Company Food Supply 104 Servings
This grab and go survival food is a great choice for those who are looking for emergency food. This survival bag contains every meal that you can think. It has food like vegetable pasta, multi-grain cereal, dried fruits,milk etc.
These are super easy to prepare; all you need is a hot cup of water and dip the content into the water. Leave it for 15 minutes, and it is good to eat.
The sterilized water packets and food can withstand higher temperatures and carry an approved 25-year shelf life. It means this is the right choice for all those looking for emergency foods to face disaster.
Once you have the survival pack with you, you can feel confident and enjoy a peace of mind regarding food emergencies or any disaster situation.
Pros
- Factory sealed and freshly dated
- Easy to use and store
- Sterilized packets
- 25-year shelf life
Cons
- A bit expensive
37. Augason Farms 48-Hour Emergency Food
Augason Farms Emergency Food Supply is designed to sustain four people for two days. Customers simply love the food because of its top quality and exceptional flavors. The food supply has everything possible that you would need and has a shelf life of about 20 years.
You get five meal varieties and about 55 servings from each food kit. It is very simple and easy to prepare food products, and all you need to do is just add water.
This is a very easy to cook food, all you need to do is add water to it, and then you can eat it. As for the taste and texture, you will find it a lot better. So, you can use this food with ease.
Pros
- Higher nutritional content
- Great variety
- Easy to prepare
- Top quality and great flavors
- 20-year shelf life
Cons
- Some food items are bland
38. Datrex 3600 Calorie Food Bar
Buy this wholesome food bar and keep yourself up on energy and food supply in times of emergency. Specially formulated for emergency situations and disaster victims, the 3600 calorie food bars come in a pack of three, and each pack offers 1200 calories a day.
This is a high-calorie prepper food to consider, and because of their compact size, it is easy to store. The food bars carry an optimum balance of all the essential nutrients such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, and salt, along with vitamins and minerals.
Customers are very satisfied with the food bars as they come in smaller packs and stays fresh for a long time. It does not require cooking and is great to carry with you in your car, boat, or office. As a word of caution, for all those who have coconut allergies should avoid buying as this product has coconut.
Pros
- 3600 calorie food bars
- Light and compact
- High on nutrition and taste
- Stays fresh
Cons
- People having allergy from coconut should avoid it.
39. Bridgford BBQ Pork Wrap
BBQ pork wraps come in a pack of 3 and are considered the best survival food because of the higher nutrition value. These wraps are just perfect for taking along for your camping or hiking.
Each of those wraps is individually wrapped, and this makes it a lot easier and more convenient to use. Each stock is fresh and has to be consumed within two to three years.
Enjoy great flavors in the shelf-stable meal, and you could enjoy the BBQ pork whipped up in a sandwich or a tortilla. Well, you can certainly get adventurous with these foods which require no heating and all you need to do is just open and eat.
Pros
- Ready to eat meals
- Individually wrapped packs of 2
- Tastes great
- Wonderful BBQ flavor
- No heating needed
- 2-3 yrs shelf life
Cons
- Okay in taste
40. Survivor Industries Mainstay 6-Day Food Rations
When you are choosing food for your survival kit, then it should be full of energy, offers nutrient value and at the same time easy to carry. Mainstay emergency food rations are easy to pack, store, and take them with you.
It is a must to include these emergency foods in your starter emergency kit for survival food. You can always replenish your existing supplies with the various packs of 1,200 calories, 2,400, calorie, or 3,600 calories.
These foods are pleasant to taste and rich in nutrition. US coast guard approved; the food rations carry 5-year shelf life.
You can stock these foods for a long time because of the higher shelf life and as they can withstand higher temperatures. As the emergency food packets are pre-measured, they are ready to eat, and you know exactly how many calories you get.
Pros
- Pre-measured and ready-to-eat
- Non-thirst provoking
- Halal and kosher certified
- US coast guard approved
- 5-year shelf life
Cons
- The hole kit can be heavy
Factors To Look For When Buying Best Survival Foods
You are now in a very important part of the guide, as this section will educate you about the essential aspects to consider when looking for survival food. In case a disaster strikes your area, you know that the food supply would be hit, and it would take some time for help to arrive. But if you have stocked up your pantry with quality survival food, you would have lower causes of worry.
As a general thumb of rule, focus on those foods that you enjoy more on a regular basis, and it should be nutritious and carry a long shelf life. The food you choose should be easy to store and prepare and should not require any refrigeration.
Here are some essential factors to consider when shopping for your survival food.
1. Nutrition & Calories
One of the things that you should consider while choosing food for survival is that it should be able to supply the right nutrition and calories. Remember, you need about two thousand calories per person and for each day. This is a good starting point as it would give you an idea as to how much food you should buy, based on the number of family members and for how many days.
Different foods will carry varying nutrition, and thus you should ensure that the survival foods you have stocked carry a good balance of essential nutrients that our body needs on a daily basis.
Make sure you have stocked a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, beans, rice, and so on. After all, your body will need all the vitamins and nutrients for energy, especially in a major disaster scenario.
Whatever food you pick for an emergency should be packed with nutrients and high in calories. Just makes sure that you are not taking in more calories than you actually need to survive, or you could gain excess weight, so have a look at their calorie count before making a purchase.
You can also choose food which is an instant source of energy. An average person requires about 1,200 -1500 calories a day.
2. The Food Variety
Try to be open and adventurous for your emergency preparedness and browse through a wide selection of products, right from breakfast, dessert, soups and sides, and more. You will get options like seven-day meal kits or 15-day meal kits as well as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
The best way to get complete nutrition for your body is to add a lot of variety. So, don’t just stock up meats, rice, and beans but also get lots of fruits, vegetables, and other options. You will be overwhelmed with the choices available in the market today for survival foods. Leading producers include variety deliberately so that you can have more flavorful choices available.
3. The Shelf Life
Another essential consideration to keep in mind is the shelf life of the survival food you pick. You don’t know for long will the adverse situation continues, in such a case spending in food items that have a longer shelf life is a good idea.
Different foods can carry a different shelf life, and many lose their taste and notation after a certain time period. So, read the shelf life of those foods very carefully, and most of them will last good for a couple of years. Even if they say indefinite shelf life, they will not be so good after a certain number of years. There are food items that carry 25-30 years of shelf life.
As a shopper, research carefully and choose food items accordingly based on their approximate shelf life. If you store the food under the right conditions, you can extend the shelf life.
4. The Ease Of Use
No one likes to prepare meals on a daily basis that take hours of preparation. And when you are in an emergency like situation, the one thing on your mind is to have your food and have it fast and quick. Thus, when shopping for survival food, look for foods that are easier to prepare and ready to eat.
You will need plenty of ready-to-eat foods as the electricity might be down because of the disaster or emergency situation. Some survival foods come in pouches, and all you need to do is add hot water, and they are ready to eat. Others do not need even water and can be simply unwrapped and eaten.
Moreover, the ease of cooking during disaster times can help us save more time and focus on other important issues instead of just spending time on lengthy meal preparations. But make sure that while choosing such food items, you choose the one which is nutritious and healthy to consume.
5. Packing And Packaging
Whenever you buy survival foods, make sure that they are well packaged, and the box or packaging comes with all the essential information about shelf life, weight, date of packaging, and the nutrition and calorie value.
The survival food may come as trays, cans, bottles, or flexible packages like cling wraps, squeezable tubes, bubble wraps, vacuum bags, and more. Some specific food supplies need oxygen absorption packets and pouches.
How and in what kind of packages your survival food comes is important for you to know as a customer. You should ensure that your food is packaged properly and will stay safe and protected. If those food bars are individually packed or wrapped, it becomes easier to handle and use them.
You can just stuff them in your bag and enjoy them as a quick and easy meal while on the go. How the food is packed ensures an easy and convenient meal you need for energy and nutrition.
6. The Weight
Another essential aspect to keep in mind is the weight of the survival food kit. Weight can be a major issue if you need to shift those cartons of food from one place to another. Hence, it is important to consider weight, and the best survival food companies try to balance things between weight, nutrition, and caloric value.
Keep an eye on the with, or you will regret later as to how much of canned food you have stored, and those weigh a ton. This is something you should certainly keep in mind, especially when buying survival foods for your camping and trekking trips. Look for quality food items that are conveniently light-weight and easy to carry and pack.
What we mean to say here is that the food that you are choosing should be a blend of good quality, hygienic, safe packaging and lighter in weight such that you are able to move it across in case of emergency.
7. The Cost Factor
Well, just like any other precuts, some of the survival food items can be expensive. While it is essential to get high-quality foods as a food prepper, there is no need to blow away your budget on things that are far too expensive and which you can do without.
Keep your budget in mind and try to keep a balance when shopping and look for the best value for money products. You can buy a little at a time and slowly build up your stock. Watch out for discounts and offers to get quality products at a lower price.
Now that you are aware of the main factors to look for when shopping for the survival food, we will now have a look at some of the best options you could pick from.
Best Choices To Make In Survival Foods
When you go out there to buy survival food, then it should be something that should not only provide you with nutrient value but at the same time last longer. These foods should be an instant source of energy.
As a customer, you should know what food items to shop to stock your pantry and avoid wasting time and money on those foods that are perishable and low on nutrition. Your focus should be on those foods which not only last for a longer time but are nutritious and tasty.
Here are some examples of nutritionally-dense and long-lasting survival foods that are just perfect and a must to stock up your pile for an emergency.
1. Protein Bars And Powders
One of the first things that you should consider is that the food must be rich in protein. So, your first option could be protein bars and powders. Most people like to store their protein as bars and powders, which are not only convenient to pack but carry a longer shelf life.
These protein bars and powders are a ready supply of energy and nutrition for the body. As these bars are very small, they will not take up much space for storage.
Nowadays, you also have the option of powdered butter and cheese, so you can store them and use them for long. Thus, you can enjoy those yummy goodies as well as get those much-needed fats and calories. You can also store different varieties of dried milk powder.
Pemmican is a blend of powdered lean meats, and there are powdered eggs and powdered peanut butter, and powdered milk is another great option. Just make sure that those powdered foods are stored in a dry, cool place and away from any moisture.
2. Beans And Legumes
If you don’t want to stick to protein bars and powders, then you must stock up beans and legume. These are a rich source of protein and are very healthy. Moreover, they are available in wide varieties so you can choose the ones that match your taste.
You must include these foods as they are classic survival food and rich in proteins and nutrients. Moreover, the beans and legumes have a shelf life of several years and can be bought in bulk and stored under proper conditions.
Some of the best beans for survival include black beans, pinto beans, baked beans, lima beans, black-eyed peas, lentils, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, and lentils.
3. Meats And Fish
If planning to buy and store meat and fish for a longer time and emergency needs, they will have to be ready-to-eat. The supermarket store will have plenty of options in canned meats like chili, spam, ham, and more.
You can also go for freeze-dried meat packages like freeze-dried chicken or beef that carry a 25-year shelf life. Canned fish can be that valuable source of essential protein, and when you prepare a meal of tuna, sardines straight out of the can, what you get is a super-rich nutrient meal.
Dried meat can be a perfect source of protein and is preferred by almost every member of the family. It is easier to store dried food items for a longer time and without any hassles.
4. Drinks And Water
One of the important survival foods is bottled water, and you should have enough supply of potable water for at least three months or more. Water is very important as while you can survive without food for weeks, you cannot survive without water for more than three days.
So, make sure that you have large tanks where you can store water. You can also store vitamin-rich drinks or get powdered drink mixes to create vitamin-powdered drinks in an emergency situation.
5. Dairy And Cheese
It is a good idea to buy some cheeses and freeze them for emergency days, and you can always buy canned cheese. These are some of the best prepper foods, and if you know how to make cheeses and yogurts with dried milk, it is all the better.
Peanut butter is a valuable food during a disaster situation as it is very popular with children and is easy to store.
Children love the taste, and the butter provides them with fat, protein, and nutrients. You can also try other options like almond butter and cashew butter.
6. Canned Fruits, Veggies And Meats
Another best survival foods to buy at grocery store include canned fruits and veggies from your local grocery store. Fruits and vegetables do not have a long shelf life, but when you buy them canned, they are likely to last for at least one to two years.
Thus, you can have your steady supply for fresh veggies and fruits even during an emergency provided you have bought them well ahead in time. You can cook your favorite vegetables like green beans, peas, tomatoes, corn, and mixed vegetables and enjoy mixed fruits, peaches and pears, pineapple, and carrots.
Just like fruits and vegetables, you can stockpile canned meats as they last longer on the shelf. Even if the meat won’t taste as good as homemade beef or BBQ or the roasted chicken, but the taste will be rich and tasty enough and, more importantly, satisfy your cravings for meat.
Moreover, you will get your share of proteins. For this reason, consider the canned meats a survival food staple, and you can buy canned beef, canned tuna, canned chicken, Vienna sausages, and more.
Some canned foods work like instant meals, and all you need to do is just open the can and add hot water and enjoy the meals. Canned chili and canned soups are great options in your pantry for survival food. You can easily get dried food items like dried vegetables and fruits such as apples, bananas, popcorn, corn, and mushrooms, which are very popular.
7. Dried Fruits, Nuts And Seeds
Another nutrient supply that you need to pile up is nuts, dry fruits and seeds. Dried fruits are loaded with all the valuable nutrients and are a source of Vitamin C, iron, potassium, fiber, and protein. If possible, shop for organic dried fruits, and you can shop for mixed dry fruits such as almonds, raisins, walnuts, and more.
Some popular nuts and seeds among emergency food preppers include almonds, pecans, mixed nuts, walnuts, peanuts, unflowery seeds, and you can also buy banana chips, cranberries. These are some of the best survival foods to buy at grocery store.
8. Flour, Cereals And Mixes
Focus on healthier options like Cereal and flour, as these are some of the best survival foods. You can prepare many different recipes with flour like bread, pizza, and all you need to do to use some salt, yeast, sugar, and water to make the dough.
Flour and cereals are rich in minerals, and vitamins along with fibers and other nutrients. These are plenty of mixes available in the supermarket such as pancake mix, Hash brown mix, Mashed potato mix, and waffle mix in different flavors.
Pasta is another great option as it is easily available in any grocery store, is very cheap, and is loaded with tons of carbohydrates. Moreover, it can last for years and is very easy to cook and healthy. There is a great variety available such as fettuccine, ramen noodles, linguine, spaghetti, and macaroni.
9. Rice And Grains
Another long-lasting food that you can add to your list is rice and grains. These comparatively last longer and can be easily cooked. If you are thinking of storing rice as emergency food, only buy white rice and avoid brown rice, even if it is technically more nutritious. The reason behind this is the much shorter shelf life of brown rice, and it is likely to get spoiled much faster.
Some other grains that you can consider as best survival foods include wheat, barley, quinoa, cornmeal, oats, kamut, rye, and grits. You can also consider couscous and buckwheat, and actually, a lot relies on your preferences.
10. Condiments, Seasoning And Other Ingredients
You will, of course, need to season your foods with different condiments and seasoning, and thus is a good idea to include them in your survival food kit. After all, you would not like your pancakes without syrup or the hamburger without ketchup and mustard.
So, don’t forget to include items like hot sauce, BBQ sauce, syrups, honey, mustard, jam/jelly, salad dressing, ketchup, soy sauce, and mustard in your shopping list.
Many food items would be useless if you do not have certain ingredients like sugar, cooking oil, salt, baking powder, baking soda, spices, vinegar, lard, vanilla extract, yeast, and more.
FAQs on Survival Foods
1. What Are The Best Foods To Grow For Survival?
If you have ample space in the front or backyard, you can certainly make good use of them and grow some food for your survival. All you need is some basic gardening equipment and knowledge about working with soil.
Some of the best picks for the foods to grow in your garden include potatoes, avocadoes, green beans, sweet potatoes, peas, corn, carrots, and more. You can even grow many other fruits and vegetables based on where you live and the climatic conditions. Just make sure that you grow nutritionally dense foods with high-calorie value.
2. What Is The Big Deal about Freeze-Dried Food?
Freeze-dried foods deserve special mention as these are different from other dried foods as they are flash-frozen to retain maximum nutritional value as compared to other processes. Moreover, Freeze-dried foods keep the look and flavor of the original food, and all they need is a little water.
The major drawback of freeze-dried foods is the cost factor, as they tend to be expensive. Hence, the cost can be a major deciding factor for many preppers. Another aspect to keep in mind is that water can be scarce in an emergency situation. Therefore, consider these foods for your survival food storage only if you really need them and can afford them.
3. Should One Discuss Their Long-term Food Storage Program With Others?
No, as it is not a good idea, and it is always better to keep your mouth shut, as it is nobody’s business to know what you have stocked in your pantry or the basement.
This is because, in case of a disaster, your lovely friends and neighbors can turn into the unruly and uncouth mob as they start hunting for food. And if you tell them about your survival food stocks, they will know exactly where to look first.
4. What Is The Maximum Shelf Life For Dehydrated And Freeze-dried Food?
Typically, the food storage brands state the shelf life for dehydrated and freeze-dried food to be around 25 years or longer. Thus, that makes these foods the first choice among food preppers who are looking for survival food.
You can be rest assured that the dehydrated and freeze-dried foods will retain their quality, freshness, and nutritious value, even after so many years. However, you need to store them carefully and follow the instructions.
5. What Is The Difference Between Freeze Dried Meat And TVP?
Many people think that TVP is similar to freeze-dried meat. However, TVP is a textured vegetable protein and simply a meat substitute. If you know how to cook and prepare it correctly, you can make it look and taste like freeze-dried meat.
6. What Brands Are The Most Well Known For Manufacturing The Best Survival Food?
Some of the top brands that are the most popular among customers and enjoy great reviews include names like Mountain House, MREs, Augason Farms, Wild Planet, Peak Refuel, S.O.S. Rations, Sure-Pak, DATREX, Mainstay, Wise Company, Future Essentials Sailor Pilot, Life Gear, Prep-Right, XMRE, Bridgford and more.
Upgrade Your Survival Kit And Don’t For The Disasters To Strike
Today we live in highly unpredictable times, and even with advanced warning systems, those natural calamities are always a step ahead. And the first thing you need to ensure in disastrous times is the assurance of your life. Food and water is the only thing that you can think about, and with the help of this guide, you will be able to get the best survival food.
Now that you have gone through the guide start preparing right now and get those emergency supplies such as survival gear, water, fuel, and of course, survival food. Take advantage of all that useful information on this page, and do not forget to share it with your friends. Start planning and shopping and building your stock of survival food.
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