Preparedness is the wise choice!

In uncertain times—whether due to natural disasters, pandemics, or even unforeseen supply chain disruptions—being prepared with a food supply can make a significant difference in how well we cope with emergencies. One strategy endorsed by experts, including the FDA, is maintaining a 3-month supply of food. While it might sound like a lot, having a three-month stockpile offers practical benefits for your health, finances, and overall peace of mind. Let’s explore why storing a 3-month supply of food is essential and how it aligns with guidelines provided by the FDA.

While it might sound like a lot, having a three-month stockpile offers practical benefits for your health, finances, and overall peace of mind. Let’s explore why storing a 3-month supply of food is essential and how it aligns with guidelines provided by the FDA.

Which shelves would you prefer? I know having food safely put away, brings me peace of mind!

1. Food Insecurity - The Treat of Food Shortages

We’ve seen how quickly grocery store shelves can empty during times of crisis. From supply chain disruptions to extreme weather events, food shortages can happen unexpectedly. According to the FDA’s emergency preparedness guidelines, it is not only recommended but it’s wise to keep a three-month supply of non-perishable foods. This ensures that in the event of any crisis, you will have enough food to feed your household without the added stress of trying to find essentials.

A three-month stockpile helps ensure you will be less affected or bridge the gap if there is a disruption in food production or delivery. This length of time allows for recovery from most disruptions, and you won’t have to panic or rely on limited resources available at emergency stores.

You can concentrate on other more important things.

2. Maintaining Nutritional Balance During an Emergency

When creating a long-term food supply, the FDA emphasizes the importance of nutritional quality. A 3-month supply gives you the opportunity to stock up on healthy, well-balanced options such as canned vegetables, grains, legumes, and proteins. It’s crucial not only to have enough food but also to ensure that it supports health and wellness.

Emergency preparedness guidelines also stress the importance of considering the dietary needs of all household members—children, elderly family members, and pets—ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary nutrients. A 3-month food supply is long enough to allow for proper planning and provides flexibility to include varied food items that cater to different preferences and needs.

I often hear people say they “stockpile Ramon Noodles and are good!” Well Ramon Noodles really do not have any nutrients at all, they are high in sodium and very processed. I don’t store Ramon at all, it is not part of my preps. My kids may eat it sometimes, but there is no plan to ever store it long-term. 

3. Buying In Bulk is a Money Saver

Purchasing food in bulk often comes with discounts and savings. By buying in advance, you can take advantage of sales or seasonal price drops, making it a more cost-effective strategy. Storing a 3-month supply of food also reduces the frequency of emergency grocery runs, which tend to be more expensive, especially during a crisis.

The FDA suggests that when creating a food reserve, you consider a variety of food types and choose items that are within their expiration dates, as well as practical storage containers, to maintain quality over time. The initial investment may seem high, but over time, having a solid supply will save money and allow for more strategic grocery spending.

When I restarted my preps in 2008 after a life course change, I would buy rice and beans in bulk. Fill my Gallon container and the rest would go into Mylar with an oxygen absorber. I saved money since purchasing a gallon worth of rice/beans at the grocery market usually cost about the same as bulk prices. Yes, I paid for the membership to Sam’s or Costco, but I often split that with a roommate, family member in my household. 

4. Peace of Mind

One of the biggest benefits of keeping a 3-month food supply is the sense of security it provides. Knowing that your family has enough food to last through emergencies or unexpected situations reduces anxiety. It also frees up mental space so that you can focus on more important matters during a crisis, such as managing health, safety, or addressing immediate needs.

The FDA advises that your food supply should be easy to manage and accessible. Organizing your stock and rotating items to ensure freshness can turn the process into a proactive and productive task that benefits you in the long run.

Survival - A State of Mind - PackFreshUSA

5. Ensuring Food Safety and Shelf Life

The FDA provides valuable guidance on food safety, which is crucial when storing food for extended periods. While many non-perishable foods have long shelf lives, improper storage can cause them to spoil faster or become unsafe to eat. The FDA recommends proper storage techniques such as keeping food in a cool, dry place and using airtight containers. Regularly checking your stock and following “first in, first out” practices can help ensure your emergency food supply stays fresh.

Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers work wonders to extend the shelf life of dry goods. Storing in airtight Mylar with oxygen absorbers creates a free zone: free of oxygen and bugs.The barrier protects against sunlight and moisture. You will feel secure and can know that your food will go from months and years to decades worth of storage, when stored in Mylar bags using oxygen absorbers.

By creating a 3-month stockpile, you give yourself ample time to replace items before they expire, ensuring you always have access to safe, nutritious food when you need it most.

6. Preparedness for Public Health Crises

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how quickly grocery stores can be overwhelmed. With increasing uncertainties about public health, having a 3-month supply of food can make quarantine or isolation periods more manageable. The FDA recommends keeping emergency food supplies for at least several weeks in case of illness or emergencies where you cannot go out to shop.

In situations like this, food security is crucial to maintaining health and avoiding unnecessary exposure to potential risks. A well-thought-out food reserve allows you to take care of your family’s needs without the concern of running out of essential supplies.

How to Build Your 3-Month Food Supply

We are starting a series of blogs, one each month to help gain a 3-month stockpile of food. Prepping Resolutions: Building a Stronger, More Prepared You in 2025 - PackFreshUSA January, we will cover GRAINS.

The FDA provides useful advice on how to build an emergency food supply that meets your needs. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Assess Your Household’s Needs: Consider the dietary restrictions, preferences, and specific requirements of your family members.
2. Stock Up on Staples: Grains, pasta, canned beans, meats, fruits, and vegetables are all long-lasting and nutritious options.
3. Add Variety: Include snacks, beverages, and comfort foods that will help maintain morale.
4. Prepping Supplies: Use Mylar to store for long-term 7 Mil Mylar Box Set | PackFreshUSA
5. Plan for Rotation: Regularly rotate your stock to ensure that nothing goes to waste, using older items first and replacing them as needed.
6. Include Emergency Tools: Don’t forget essential items such as manual can openers, water, and cooking tools.

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Conclusion

Storing a 3-month supply of food is not just a precaution; it’s a proactive strategy that can save you time, money, and stress during emergencies. It ensures that you are ready for the unexpected and aligns with the FDA’s advice on preparing for food-related emergencies. Whether it’s to bridge the gap during a supply chain issue, manage a public health crisis, or provide for your family during uncertain times, having a well-stocked pantry can be one of the most responsible and reassuring steps toward resilience.

By planning ahead and considering the nutritional needs of your family, you can create an emergency food supply that not only meets basic needs but also promotes a sense of security and preparedness. So, take a moment today to start building your 3-month supply and rest easy knowing you're ready for whatever lies ahead.

Come join our year long journey to help get you and your loved ones prepped with a 3-month supply of food.

Happy New Years from your friends at PackFreshUSA,

Ola D Griffin

Long-term Food Storage Expert

Customer Service, Safeguard Brands, Inc. dba PackFreshUSA

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