Winter Safety and Preparedness

12 Things To Have Stocked in Your Pantry During Blizzard Season

Even when shelves are empty of bread and milk, you will have these essentials to fall back on. (Instagram/@gbk7288)

With blizzard season keeping a firm grasp on the Eastern Seaboard, some grocery store shelves can be wiped clean of the essentials. Whether you live in the affected area or not, it's important to always have these on hand during the time of year when snow is plentiful. Even if the stores are already out of milk and bread, you can make the best of a bad situation with these foods.

1. Water

Whether you buy gallons or bottles, it's never a bad idea to have extra potable water in your house. Pipes are at risk of freezing during winter storms and you may need it not just for drinking but to bathe and wash dishes as well.

2. Canned Soups

This one's obvious. Soup is a meal in a convenient canned package. Always have your favorites on hand just in case.

3. Grains

Rice, barley, oats and more are great building blocks for a bigger meal, whether it's breakfast, dinner or dessert. You likely already have a supply of grains in your pantry, but this is one of those staples you just can't have too much of. They’re simple to prepare, too – just get a pot of water boiling.

4. Baking Mix

So they're already out of bread at the store? No problem. Grab a biscuit or pancake mix for your fluffy carb fix.

5. Crackers or Tortillas

Another great building block for a snack or lunch, crackers and tortillas can be topped, dipped, toasted and more.

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6. Canned Tuna or Chicken

It's a good idea to have a nonperishable meat on hand during blizzard conditions, in case you aren't able to safely store and prepare raw chicken, beef or pork.

7. Nut Butters

Peanut butter and almond butter are great cracker toppers or sandwich fillings, and they're nutritious too. Some need to be refrigerated, so be sure to check the label.

8. Honey

Honey never goes bad. It adds a sweet touch to your crackers or biscuits, and you can even use it to make your own granola.

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9. Fruit

It's a good idea to have a variety of fruit on hand that doesn't need to be refrigerated, like oranges, apples and bananas. Most berries need to be refrigerated.

10. Potatoes

As long as they’re stored in a cool, dark place, potatoes can last several weeks. Have a dozen or so on hand for breakfast hashes, baked potatoes, mashed potatoes and more. What’s more comforting during a winter storm than comfort food itself?

11. Applesauce

Get your Vitamin C and satisfy your sweet tooth with applesauce. Unopened, applesauce can be stored at room temperature.

12. Chocolate

It makes everything better. If your power goes out and you need to use up milk, you can chop up the chocolate and make a rich hot cocoa! Believe it or not, hot cocoa has many health benefits.

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