If recent world events have given you a big, fat wake-up call, you are not alone. The message is clear: Every household needs to have some amount of food in storage.

Stocking up now on the right nonperishable food items will help you weather the storm (or global pandemic) with less stress. The type and amount of food to store is an individual decision that depends on your financial resources and storage area.

Ideally, your long-term goal is to have stockpiled enough to feed your family for six months. But start with shorter goals, like enough food for one week and then two weeks and then a month. This kind of incremental plan won’t bust the budget or throw you into panic-buying that can easily lead to burnout and buyer’s remorse.

<strong>CANNED VEGETABLES</strong>

Generally, commercially canned foods are good for two to five years from the date they were packed. High-acid foods such as tomato sauce will not keep as long as a can of beans, for example. Canned varieties can provide you with essential nutrients, making these a great hurricane food or natural disaster option. Canned foods lose vitamins as time goes by, so you will want to rotate your food supply so you are using and replacing items before their “use by” dates.

<strong>CANNED PROTEIN</strong>

Canned protein such as tuna, salmon, chicken, corned beef, turkey and even bacon (yes, you can now buy canned, cooked bacon) has a shelf life of five years or longer. Canned meats provide essential protein.

<strong>CANNED SOUPS AND CHILI</strong>

An added benefit here is that soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can while providing a variety of nutrients.

<strong>RICE</strong>

White rice should be used within two years after opening. Brown rice should be used within six months, as it has more protein. You can extend the shelf life of white rice in containers with tight-fitting lids. It can last up to 10 years when properly vacuum-sealed.

<strong>DRY PASTA AND PASTA SAUCES</strong>

Pasta is filling, and in a well-packaged state, it will last for months, perhaps even years, on pantry shelves. Jarred and canned pasta sauces will be a welcomed sight when you need a quick meal that’s simple to heat and eat.

<strong>DRY BEANS</strong>

Beans and legumes are a great source of protein and ideal for long-term storage. In their dry state, they remain edible for long periods of time.

<strong>FLOUR</strong>

You can count on all-purpose flour lasting well for three to six months in its sealed bag or up to one year in the refrigerator. If stored in the freezer, it can last even longer.

<strong>SUGAR</strong>

Sugar is one of the few products that lasts indefinitely. The only problem it presents for cooks is that it can harden. For this reason, plan on sugar having a useful shelf life of about two years.

<strong>BOTTLED WATER</strong>

Here’s the goal: Stock at least a three-day supply. You need at least one gallon per person per day. An averagely active person should drink at least a half-gallon of water each day. The other half-gallon is for adding to food and washing. Start small by buying a few bottles every time you’re at the store.