This power outage food list comes in handy in any emergency situation. The list features foods that don’t require cooking or refrigeration and are non-perishable.
Power Outage Food List
Most of the foods on this list can be opened without the need for any tools. But owning a manual can open for these kinds of situations is just the smart thing to do.
Of course, a battery-powered can opener will work, but it’s better to use your batteries for items like flashlights
1. Cereal
Cereal is not the healthiest of foods, but kids love it and it can be stored for a long time.
Serve it with boxed milk and they’ll eat it for weeks.
2. Boxed Milk
Try to freeze milk if you can, but boxed milk makes a decent substitute and can be stored for months.
If you’re allergic to dairy, look for coconut, almond and rice milk. If you have chia seeds, you can use them to make chia seed pudding overnight.
3. Crackers
Crackers are another pantry staple that can be kept on the shelves for a long time. They’re also very versatile and can be paired with a number of non-perishable foods including:
- Tuna
- Peanut butter
- Honey
4. Fruit cups
Buy single-serve fruit (peaches, pears, mixed fruit) and apple sauce cups with a peel-off lid and use them for a dessert, snack or breakfast.
Tip: While we all try to reduce plastic waste, do keep a cutlery set in stock in case there’s no water at hand.
5. Tuna Pouches (or Cans with Pop-Top)
Tuna provides omega 3 acids and a bit of protein, so it’s a smart food to keep in your pantry at all times. There’s a variety of flavors to choose from including herbs, lemon pepper and even bacon.
Pair the tuna with crackers or, if available, tortilla shells or bread.
Of course, if do have a can opener at hand, you can use those instead.
6. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a good source of protein and is pretty filling. Obviously, if you or someone in your family is allergic to peanuts, this is not the food for you.
You can use other kinds of nut butters like almond or cashew.
Use the nut butter with bread, tortilla shells, crackers and pretzels, and honey.
7. Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a good source of protein and an excellent food on the go. You can find a good variety of beef jerky on Amazon.
8. Cereal Bars
Like with cereal, these bars are not the healthiest of food and I only keep them around for emergencies.
Most of them are filled with sugar or HFCS, but there are some brands like Kind that are slightly better.
9. Canned Chili
Cold soup, doesn’t taste so well, but cold chili can be very nice and filling served with taco shells.
Brands like Hormel, Stag, and Tony Panko now come with a pop-top, so you don’t need a can opener. Learn more here.
10. Nuts, Seeds, and Dried Fruit
Small bags of nuts are cheap and easily fit into a handbag. A high-energy trail mix like this one from Power Up is also non-GMO and Keto/Paleo friendly.
11. Canned Kimchi or Sauerkraut
Both Kimchi and sauerkraut are fermented foods that good for gut health. Eat on its own or pair it with beef jerky.
12. Spam
Spam can be eaten hot or cold. Serve it with mustard.
Non Food Items You Need During a Power Outage
- Matches
- Collapsible Water Container with Spigot
- Lighter fluid
- Barbecue or camping stove- Check Amazon for Availability
- Charcoal
- Candles
- Batteries
- Emergency radio
- Portable charger
Final thoughts
Try to plan ahead for any emergencies that may occur. Use this power outage food list to provide the basic items you and your family need.
