What groceries should you buy before the winter storm? (2024)

FAQs

What groceries should you buy before the winter storm? ›

High-protein and non-perishable foods

Cereal and granola. Anything jarred, from jellies to pickles to meats. Canned tuna and salmon. Peanut butter and other shelf-stable nut butters, a vegan-friendly source of protein.

Canned meats, fruits, and vegetables are top picks because they can be eaten in the can without warming if you lose power. Just make sure you have a manual can opener. Experts also recommend high-protein foods like energy and fruit bars, dry cereal, granola, and peanut butter.

Have a 3-day supply of water and food for each person in the household as well as enough food and water for all pets. Make sure all prescriptions are filled and your Emergency Supply Kit has all the necessary items. Have flashlights for every family member, along with plenty of extra batteries.

Choose foods like energy bars and protein and fruit bars not requiring refrigeration or freezing, said Sands, who trains students in disaster and emergency preparedness. Dry cereal, granola, peanut butter, dried fruit and non-perishable pasteurized milk are also good to have as you hunker down.

All Americans should have at least a three-day supply of food and water stored in their homes, with at least one gallon of water per person per day. If you have the space, experts recommend a week's supply of food and water. Choose foods that don't require refrigeration and are not high in salt.

Focus on shelf-stable food

Shelf-stable foods include dried goods like flour, sugar, rice, and salt. The list also includes canned goods and food in jars. These last ones will generally need to be used soon after opening, but they are typically long-lasting before that.

What foods to avoid in winter? ›

Apparel – Outdoor winter activity clothing such as winter hats, scarves, thick socks, winter boots, hoodies, sweatshirts, and custom long-sleeve shirts. Home Decor – If your target audience enjoys relaxing indoors, consider blankets, pillows, oven mitts, aprons, cutting boards, custom slippers, etc.

Food Ideas That Keep on the Shelf

Canned fruits, vegetables, beans, meats, fish. Canned juices, broths and soups. Shelf-stable "boxes" of juices and milk.

Stay Safe During Winter Weather

Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven. Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.

Just like any other storm at other times of the year, the right combination of ingredients is necessary for a winter storm to develop. Three basic ingredients are necessary to make a winter storm: cold air, lift and moisture.

Keep Your Pipes Working

Leave your faucets dripping if the temps drop below freezing, and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate. If you think you'll lose heat for several days, drain your pipes to prevent them from bursting.