When hurricanes or huge storms strike, power outages and water disruptions are common, making it essential to plan for food safety. Knowing how to prepare, cook, and store food during emergencies can protect your health and reduce food waste. Follow along as we share more tips each month to help you prepare for the upcoming storm season.

Essential supplies that allow you to have the right food-safe tools on hand:

• Thermometers: Purchase and place a fridge/freezer thermometer, and keep a tip-sensitive digital thermometer ready to check food temperatures.

• Coolers and Ice: Stock up on ice, freeze containers of water, or purchase dry ice to help extend the time food stays cold.

• Water Storage: Store clean water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

• Outdoor Cooking Equipment: Invest in or locate your grills, camp stoves, and charcoal burners that can be used to safely heat up foods if the power goes out.

Smart Food Choices to Stock that are safe without refrigeration, can be eaten cold, or heated on an outdoor grill:

• Dairy: Hard cheeses (cheddar, parmesan); shelf-stable milk in boxes or alternative milk in boxes; individual cheese sticks.

• Proteins: Shelf-stable meats like tuna and salmon; canned beans and legumes; nut and seed butters.

• Grains and Snacks: Breads, muffins, granola bars, crackers, popcorn.

• Produce: Whole fruits and vegetables, canned fruits, and individual fruit cups.

• Other: Canned Soups and Stews

Being informed and prepared can help reduce food waste, prevent foodborne illness, and keep your family safe during hurricane season. Follow along as we share more tips each year to help you prepare for the upcoming storm season.

For more food safety information, visit foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu

N.C. Cooperative Extension’s goal is to provide the residents of the community with research-based knowledge. For more information on nutrition, health, food preservation, and food safety in Lee County, please contact the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, Ashley Szilvay at 919-775-5624.