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Emergency Food Bars: A Guide to Making Your Own

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Emergency Food Bars: A Guide to Making Your Own

In the event of an emergency, having access to food is essential. While canned goods and other non-perishable items are great options, emergency food bars provide a convenient and nutrient-rich way to stay fueled in a crisis. These bars are easy to make and can be stored for extended periods, making them an ideal addition to your emergency preparedness kit.

Why Make Your Own Emergency Food Bars?

There are several benefits to making your own emergency food bars:

  • Control over Ingredients: You can customize the recipe to include your preferred ingredients and avoid any allergens or sensitivities.
  • Cost Savings: Commercially produced emergency food bars can be expensive. Making your own allows you to save money.
  • Freshness: Homemade bars are often fresher and more flavorful than store-bought options.

Recipe for Basic Emergency Food Bars

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered milk
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
  • 1/4 cup nuts or seeds (such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, powdered milk, honey, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts, and salt.
  2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  4. Press the mixture into the prepared pan, creating an even layer.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares.
  7. Store the bars in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Tips for Making Emergency Food Bars:

  • Experiment with Ingredients: You can add other ingredients to your emergency food bars, such as chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or protein powder.
  • Consider Shelf Life: The shelf life of your emergency food bars will depend on the ingredients you use. For maximum shelf life, choose ingredients that are naturally long-lasting, such as oats, flour, and dried fruit.
  • Store Properly: Store your bars in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage.
  • Label and Date: Label your bars with the date they were made to keep track of their freshness.

Additional Resources:

For more information on emergency preparedness and survival food, you can visit the following resources:

Remember, being prepared for emergencies is crucial. Making your own emergency food bars is a simple and effective way to ensure you have a reliable source of nutrition in a crisis.

Emergency Preparedness