Top Pantry Essentials to Have Ready Before a Blizzard Strikes

Living in a cold climate like northern Vermont, you quickly learn how to prepare for winter emergencies. From blizzards and ice storms to freezing wind chills, we've seen it all (including the extreme cold where your nostrils freeze together!).

When a blizzard hits, it’s crucial to have the right foods stocked up. A sudden storm could leave you stuck indoors for days without power, and trust me, there's nothing worse than realizing you're out of cat food while stranded in the cold and dark.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises having at least three days' worth of non-perishable foods on hand. Some experts recommend even more: "For those in high-risk areas, plan to have enough food for double the number of people in your household and double the time you expect outages," says Angela Lemond, RDN, LD, CSP, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. "Better to be over-prepared than under-prepared."

Here’s a list of shelf-stable, easy-to-prepare foods that will help you get through a blizzard or winter storm, along with some foods you should avoid. Plan ahead so you’re not left empty-handed when the grocery store shelves are wiped out.

Snowstorm Survival: Pantry Essentials

Stock your pantry with nutrient-packed, energy-boosting foods. Maintain a checklist and review expiration dates twice a year to ensure freshness.

Bottled Water: Essential for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends one gallon per person and pet per day. Don’t skimp, as dehydration can sap your strength and even be life-threatening.

Canned Soups: These comforting classics provide hydration and key nutrients. Choose low-sodium options when possible.

Applesauce & Low-Sugar Fruit Cups: "Convenient, single-serving, ready-to-eat items are a must," says Lemond.

Granola and Protein Bars: These are convenient to store, have a long shelf life, and provide an energy boost with carbs. Be mindful of added sugars by checking the labels.

Pancake and Baking Mixes: Even without power, you can still cook with a grill or gas stove. Keep a stock of just-add-water mixes for pancakes, biscuits, and more.

Rice, Oats, and Grains: These are simple to prepare and can be used to stretch other ingredients into a full meal.

Peanut Butter and Other Nut Butters: Packed with healthy fats and protein, these are great for fueling your body during a storm.

Whole-Grain Crackers and Tortillas: Perfect for snacking, wraps, and mini sandwiches. Whole grains offer fiber for satiety and digestion, while carbs keep your energy levels up.

Canned Tuna, Salmon, Chicken, and Turkey: These protein-packed staples have a shelf life of two to three years in your pantry. Vacuum-sealed pouches are also a solid option, though they don't last as long.

Canned Beans: A fantastic source of both protein and fiber, making them a versatile pantry essential.

Honey: This natural sweetener never spoils, making it a reliable addition to your emergency supplies.

Sports Drinks: These help maintain hydration while replenishing electrolytes and carbs, but be cautious of added sugars.

Shelf-Stable Almond or Soy Milk: Opt for single-serving packs, as recommended by Lemond, for convenience and longer shelf life.

Low-Sodium Canned Vegetables: These affordable staples have a long shelf life and are packed with essential vitamins.

Dried Apricots and Raisins: These fiber-rich, antioxidant-packed fruits make a sweet and healthy snack option.

Dry and Canned Pet Food: Pet owners should stock up on more food than they think they’ll need for their furry friends.

High-Heat Oils like Peanut, Avocado, and Sesame Oil: With the right tools, such as pans and grilling baskets, you can create quick meals like stir-fries on a gas grill. "Asian udon noodles cook in just two minutes," says Lemond. Note: Never grill indoors—there's a risk of fire or toxic fumes.

Fresh Produce to Buy Before a Winter Storm Hits

The fruits and vegetables listed below can stay fresh for days—or even weeks—without refrigeration. Make sure to stock up before the snowstorm arrives, and wash them in advance.

• Apples
• Bananas
• Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and clementines
• Tomatoes
• Avocados

Comfort Foods to Have Ready During a Blizzard

They don’t call it cabin fever for nothing! Keep some indulgent treats on hand for those moments when all you can do is cozy up and watch the snow fall—or binge Netflix, if you’re lucky enough to have power.

• Dark chocolate: It has more heart-healthy nutrients than milk chocolate.
• Herbal teas
• Hot cocoa mix

Important Reminders

• Special needs: Medicines, infant formula, baby food
• Multivitamins (chewable or gummies)
• Tools: Can opener, flashlights, candles, and matches
• Cleaning wipes

Foods to Steer Clear of During a Winter Storm

Alcohol: Booze and blizzards don’t mix well. Alcohol dehydrates your body and could cloud your judgment when quick thinking is essential.

Salty or Spicy Foods: These can leave you feeling even thirstier than before.

Junk Foods: Loading up on sugary snacks and sodas provides empty calories, leads to energy crashes, and weakens your immunity to cold and flu bugs.

Fridge Foods (If the Power Goes Out): Bacteria thrives in temperatures above 40°F/4°C. Discard milk, eggs, and other perishable items that have been at room temperature for two hours or longer. Foods that have thawed are safe to eat as long as they remain cool. Unsure about that salad dressing? When in doubt, throw it out.