Food - suitable for disaster?!?!

Annually, we have to prepare for natural disasters. This is because we could be hit by a hurricane, flood, or earthquake at any time. One cannot stress the importance of having non-perishable food items.

Below, we will highlight some categories and why they are best suited for such times.



  1. Canned Foods:

    • Canned Meats: Examples include corned beef, Vienna sausages, and tuna.
    • Canned Vegetables: Such as pigeon peas, black beans, kidney beans, and callaloo.
    • Canned Fruits: Pineapple slices, mangoes, and guavas are commonly found.

  2. Dry Foods:

    • Rice and Pasta: Stored in airtight containers, they can last long.
    • Legumes: Dried peas, beans, and lentils. They are a great source of protein and are very filling.
    • Hard Dough Bread: This dense bread common in the Caribbean tends to have a longer shelf life than typical breads.
    • Cassava Bread: Made from ground cassava (yuca or manioc), it can be stored for extended periods.




  5. Preserved Foods:

    • Saltfish: Dried and salted cod that can be rehydrated and cooked.
    • Smoked Herring: Another preserved fish product that can be used in various dishes.

  6. Starches:

    • Green Bananas and Plantains: They have a relatively long shelf life than other fruits and can be boiled or fried.
    • Taro, Dasheen, and Sweet Potato: These root vegetables can last a while if kept in a cool, dark place.





  10. Dried Snacks:

    • Coconut Drops: Made with dried coconut and sugar, they can provide quick energy.
    • Peanut Brittle and Sesame Seed Balls: High-energy snacks that can be stored for a long time.

  11. Powdered and Evaporated Milk: These can be reconstituted with water to provide essential nutrients.

  12. Bottled and Packaged Beverages:

    • Bottled Water: Essential for drinking and cooking.
    • Instant Coffee and Tea: For a quick source of caffeine and comfort.
    • Powdered Juice: Can be mixed with water to provide flavour and vitamin C.

  13. Jams and Preserves: Tropical fruits like guava, mango, and pineapple are often made into jams that can be stored for extended periods.

  14. Biscuits and Crackers: They can be stored for a long time and are excellent for quick energy.

  15. Instant Soups and Noodles: These can be quickly prepared with hot water.

When preparing for a disaster, it's also vital to have tools like manual can openers, matches or lighters, portable stoves, and basic cooking utensils on hand.



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