30 Canned Goods for Emergency Food Storage
by When you’re stocking up for emergencies, canned goods are a great option. While we place a lot of focus on food dehydration, my food storage includes many canned goods too.
Canned goods can last for years, don’t require refrigeration, and are packed with essential nutrients that will keep you going when times get tough. Whether it’s a natural disaster or just wanting to be prepared, here’s a list of of the best canned goods that can help you stay nourished during emergencies.
Canned Beans
Canned beans are a powerhouse of nutrition. They’re loaded with protein, fiber, and iron, making them a fantastic option for keeping you full and energized.
Since there are many varieties (black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas), you can switch it up and avoid getting bored with your meals. Plus, they’re easy to prepare – just open the can, and they’re ready to eat or add to a dish.
Canned Tuna
Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. It’s also high in protein, making it an excellent option when fresh meat is not available.
This canned fish can be eaten straight from the can, tossed in a salad, or mixed with pasta. It’s versatile and has a long shelf life, making it a must-have in your emergency kit.
Canned Chicken
Canned chicken offers a quick and easy source of protein, without the need for refrigeration. It’s perfect for whipping up a sandwich or adding to soups and casseroles.
With its mild taste, canned chicken can be seasoned however you like, and it’s already cooked, so you don’t need to worry about any additional prep.
Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes can be the base for a variety of dishes, from soups to sauces. They’re full of vitamins A and C, which are great for boosting your immune system.
These are also high in antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to several health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease.
Canned Sardines
Sardines are another great source of omega-3s, and they’re also packed with calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones.
They can be eaten straight out of the can or used in salads, sandwiches, or pasta. The best part? They’re shelf-stable for years, so you can store them without worrying about them spoiling.
Canned Peaches
Canned peaches are not only delicious but also a great source of vitamin C and fiber. In an emergency, they provide a quick, sweet snack that can boost your energy.
Just make sure to choose peaches canned in juice rather than syrup to avoid unnecessary added sugars. They’re refreshing and easy to enjoy straight from the can.
Canned Corn
Canned corn is a convenient way to add veggies to your meals when fresh produce is unavailable. It’s packed with fiber and vitamins like B and C.
It can be eaten on its own, added to salads, soups, or mixed into casseroles for extra flavor and nutrition.
Canned Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is full of vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function. It’s also rich in fiber, keeping your digestion in check.
This versatile veggie can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, from pumpkin soups to pie fillings. It’s a nutrient-dense option for your pantry.
Canned Soup
Canned soups come in various flavors and types, offering a comforting and filling meal with minimal effort. They often contain a mix of vegetables and proteins.
Many soups are fortified with vitamins and minerals, making them a good all-around choice for emergency storage. Look for low-sodium options to keep it healthier.
Canned Green Beans
Green beans are a great source of vitamin K and fiber. Canned green beans can be eaten as a side dish or added to other meals to boost the veggie content.
They’re easy to heat up or eat cold in a pinch, making them a reliable option when fresh vegetables aren’t available.
Canned Pineapple
Canned pineapple offers a sweet and tangy treat while providing plenty of vitamin C. It’s also full of antioxidants that help support your immune system.
This fruit can be eaten as a snack or added to dishes like salads and even grilled meats to give them a tropical twist.
Canned Spinach
Spinach is packed with iron, vitamin A, and calcium, making it a great option to keep you strong and healthy. Canned spinach is already cooked and can be easily added to dishes.
It’s perfect for making quick meals like casseroles or omelets, providing essential nutrients that fresh greens typically offer.
Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is another excellent source of protein and omega-3s. Plus, it has the added benefit of being rich in calcium and vitamin D.
You can use canned salmon to make salmon patties, add it to salads, or mix it into pasta for a nutritious meal.
Canned Pears
Canned pears, especially those packed in juice, are a great way to enjoy a natural, sweet fruit during emergencies. They’re rich in fiber and vitamin C.
These are easy to eat straight from the can or add to desserts, salads, or even oatmeal for a quick boost of nutrition.
Canned Chili
Canned chili is hearty, filling, and packed with protein, thanks to the beans and meat typically included. It’s a great meal option that requires no prep.
Look for low-sodium or vegetarian versions to suit your dietary needs, and enjoy it straight from the can or with some crackers or rice.
Canned Mixed Vegetables
Canned mixed vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals in one convenient package. You can use them as a side dish or mix them into soups and casseroles.
Since they’re already cooked, they’re ready to eat, making them an easy, nutritious option when fresh veggies aren’t available.
Canned Beets
Beets are full of antioxidants, fiber, and folate, which supports cell function and overall health. Canned beets are ready to eat and add a pop of color to any dish.
They can be sliced and tossed into salads, eaten as a side, or even used in smoothies for added nutrients.
Canned Fruit Cocktail
Fruit cocktail is a fun and refreshing option that combines several fruits like peaches, pears, grapes, and cherries. It’s a sweet way to get some vitamin C and fiber.
Try choosing varieties packed in juice rather than syrup to avoid extra sugars. They’re great for snacking or adding to a quick dessert.
Canned Potatoes
Canned potatoes are convenient and ready to eat, offering potassium and fiber. They can be added to soups, casseroles, or fried up as a quick side dish.
Since they’re pre-cooked, canned potatoes can save time in the kitchen, and they’re filling, making them a useful staple in emergencies.
Canned Mushrooms
Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins and antioxidants. Canned mushrooms can be tossed into pasta, stir-fries, or used as pizza toppings to add nutrition and flavor.
Their long shelf life makes them an easy-to-store option that brings an earthy taste to your dishes without needing refrigeration.
Canned Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a rich, creamy flavor to dishes. It’s full of healthy fats and can be used in curries, soups, or even desserts.
It’s versatile and shelf-stable, which makes it an excellent choice for both savory and sweet dishes during an emergency.
Canned Peas
Peas are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K. Canned peas can be added to soups, casseroles, or eaten as a side dish.
They’re soft and ready to eat straight from the can, making them a convenient way to boost your veggie intake.
Canned Ham
Canned ham offers a savory protein option that’s ready to eat. It’s salty, filling, and can be added to sandwiches, salads, or eaten as-is.
With its long shelf life, canned ham can be a lifesaver when fresh meats are unavailable, and it’s easy to prepare with minimal effort. Another option for ham products is SPAM which I gave into and now use in my food storage pantry. Meats have more salt than I like, so I do limit how much we eat.
Canned Yams
Yams are full of vitamins A and C, along with fiber. Canned yams are soft and sweet, making them an easy addition to both savory and sweet dishes.
They’re ready to eat, but you can also heat them up and use them in pies, casseroles, or as a side to your meal.
Canned Artichokes
Artichokes are high in fiber and antioxidants, and canned versions can be added to salads, dips, or pasta. They have a unique flavor that can elevate simple dishes.
Their nutritional benefits and long shelf life make them a good choice for emergency food storage, especially if you want variety in your meals.
Canned Apricots
Canned apricots are a delicious and nutrient-packed fruit option. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
These can be eaten on their own or added to desserts, salads, and yogurt for a quick burst of sweetness and nutrition.
Canned Clams
Clams are a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, making them a nutritious choice for seafood lovers. Canned clams can be used in chowders, pastas, or stews.
With their long shelf life and versatile use, canned clams are a good option when fresh seafood isn’t available.
Canned Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a fermented food that’s rich in probiotics, which are good for gut health. It’s also a good source of vitamins C and K.
It can be used as a side dish, added to sandwiches, or paired with meats. Plus, it has a long shelf life, making it a great emergency food choice.
Canned Lentils
Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and iron. Canned lentils are pre-cooked, so they’re ready to eat and can be added to soups, salads, or stews.
They’re filling and nutritious, making them a great option to keep you going in an emergency situation.
Canned Ravioli
Canned ravioli offers a comforting and filling meal in a can. It’s a convenient source of carbohydrates and protein, and it’s easy to prepare. We would minimize the amount of these your family eats though due to the high salt content. But, since the kids love these more than veggies – we want to have a treat on hand for them!
Canned goods are a practical and reliable option for emergency food storage. They offer a wide variety of nutrients, have a long shelf life, and can be used in different ways to keep your meals varied and enjoyable. Having these 30 canned goods in your emergency kit ensures that you and your family will have nutritious and easy-to-prepare meals when you need them the most.
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