UK households are being advised to stockpile four key categories of food to stay prepared in case severe weather strikes during the colder months. The guidance follows a recent recommendation for people to keep emergency survival kits in their homes.
What the experts recommend
The advice centres on four main food groups that could prove invaluable during an emergency. A solid starting point is complex carbohydrates such as crackers, breads, oats, rice and pasta. These staples have a long shelf life and provide sustained energy.
Protein sources are also considered essential, particularly if households cannot reach shops for an extended period. Recommended items include canned chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans, unsalted nuts and canned oily fish.
Tinned goods and long-life milk
Because fresh fruit spoils quickly, tinned varieties are suggested as a practical alternative. The juice inside the tins can also be consumed to provide additional fluids, vitamins and fibre.
Long-life milk, found in the non-refrigerated aisle at the supermarket, is another recommended staple. It provides protein and calcium while serving as a valuable source of fluid.
Public suggestions and practical tips
The topic was previously raised on Reddit, where one user asked: "What's the best UK food to keep in the house for an emergency?" A lively debate followed, with diverse recommendations. One user suggested: "Pasta - keeps for months, if not years. Use a marker pen to keep age order." Another advised: "Keep a rolling stock of things you normally eat. We keep pasta, tuna, tinned beans and pulses, tinned tomatoes, sweetcorn, long-life milk, corned beef, noodles, dried beans and lentils, flour, lots of spices and salt."
When purchasing tinned goods, it is advisable to check the salt and sugar content on the label and choose options that support overall health.
