Arab Weather - With growing regional tensions and fears of nuclear disasters or major wars, it has become imperative to consider emergency scenarios and prepare in advance. One of the most important ways to prepare is to stockpile long-term foods that can provide you and your family with food and energy for periods that may extend to weeks or even months in the event of supply chains being interrupted or you being forced to remain in a shelter.
In this article, we present the top 10 essential foods that every home should have in case of an emergency, war, or nuclear or radiation leak:
1. White rice
- Shelf life: Up to 30 years if stored under suitable conditions (tight containers).
- Why is it important? Because it's an excellent source of energy, easy to prepare, and quickly fills you up.
2. Lentils and dried beans
- Shelf life: up to 25 years.
- Benefit: Rich in protein and fiber, it is an ideal substitute for meat when refrigeration is not available.
3. Dried pasta
- Shelf life: 10 to 15 years.
- Why? Easy to store and prepare, and a good source of carbohydrates.
4. Sugar and salt
- Validity period: Unlimited.
- Benefit: Essential for cooking and preserving food, salt helps maintain fluid balance in the body.
5. Natural honey
- Expiry date: Does not actually expire.
- Why is it important? Because it's a source of energy and is used as a natural antibacterial.
6. Dried milk powder
- Shelf life: 15 to 20 years.
- Benefit: Rich in calcium and protein, ideal for children and adults.
7. Peanut butter or nuts
- Shelf life: 1 to 2 years (peanut butter may last longer).
- Benefit: Concentrated energy, healthy fats, excellent source of protein in emergencies.
8. Canned tuna or sardines
- Shelf life: 5 to 10 years.
- Why is it important? Because it's a ready-to-eat animal protein rich in omega-3.
9. Freeze-dried meals
- Shelf life: up to 30 years.
- Benefit: Contains all nutrients, widely used in the military and emergency agencies.
10. Bottled drinking water or water purification tablets
- Shelf life: Bottled water lasts 1 to 2 years – tablets last for years.
- Reason: No food is edible without water, and clean water can become scarce in nuclear disasters.
Golden tips for smart storage:
- Store food in dry, cool, dark places.
- Use airtight containers with moisture and oxygen absorbent bags.
- Monitor expiration dates and apply the "oldest, first used" principle.
conclusion
Emergency preparedness is not a sign of pessimism, but rather of wisdom and awareness. Don't wait for a disaster to strike before taking action. Prepare yourself and your family today, as food can become more valuable than gold in times of crisis.