What To Know
- The sweetness and familiarity of candy can provide a sense of comfort and distraction.
- Incorporating the best candy for emergency into your preparedness kit can provide a valuable source of energy, comfort, and morale.
- Remember, a little bit of sweetness can go a long way in making emergencies a little bit easier to bear.
In times of disaster or emergency, having a reliable supply of food is crucial. While non-perishable items like canned goods and granola bars are essential, don’t forget the importance of comfort and morale-boosting treats. Enter candy—a delicious and compact source of energy that can provide a much-needed boost during stressful situations.
Why Candy for Emergencies?
- High Calorie Density: Candy is packed with calories, providing quick and sustained energy.
- Portable and Shelf-Stable: Candy bars and hard candies are easy to carry and have a long shelf life.
- Mood Booster: The sweetness and familiarity of candy can provide a sense of comfort and distraction.
- Treat for Children: Candy can be a small treat for children who may be scared or anxious during emergencies.
Best Candy for Emergency Preparedness
Not all candy is created equal. Here are the top picks for emergency preparedness:
Hard Candies
- Peppermints: Refreshing and stimulating, peppermints can help with nausea and indigestion.
- Butterscotch: Sweet and comforting, butterscotch provides a burst of energy.
- Lemon Drops: Sour and invigorating, lemon drops can boost alertness.
Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants and caffeine, dark chocolate provides energy and mood upliftment.
- Milk Chocolate: Sweet and creamy, milk chocolate is a comforting treat.
- Trail Mix with Chocolate Chips: Chocolate chips add a sweet touch to nutrient-rich trail mix.
Gummies
- Fruit Snacks: Bite-sized and chewy, fruit snacks provide a fruity boost of energy.
- Gummy Bears: Colorful and fun, gummy bears are a favorite among children and adults alike.
Other Options
- Jelly Beans: Small and easy to eat, jelly beans come in a variety of flavors.
- Candy Corn: A seasonal treat that provides a burst of sweetness.
- Granola Bars with Candy: Granola bars with added candy provide both energy and a sweet treat.
Storage and Preservation
- Store candy in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep candy in airtight containers or zip-top bags to prevent moisture and spoilage.
- Check expiration dates regularly and discard any expired items.
Consumption Guidelines
- Consume candy in moderation, as it can be high in sugar and calories.
- Avoid sticky candy, as it can be difficult to store and consume in emergency situations.
- Hard candies should be avoided by young children who may be at risk of choking.
Alternate Uses for Candy
In addition to providing energy and comfort, candy can also serve other purposes in emergencies:
- Fire Starter: Sugar cubes can be used as a fire starter in a pinch.
- Pain Relief: Hard candies can be sucked on to relieve minor aches and pains.
- Distraction: Candy can be a useful distraction for children who are anxious or scared.
Takeaways: Sweeten Up Your Emergency Preparedness
Incorporating the best candy for emergency into your preparedness kit can provide a valuable source of energy, comfort, and morale. By following storage and consumption guidelines, you can ensure that your candy stash remains a reliable companion in times of need. Remember, a little bit of sweetness can go a long way in making emergencies a little bit easier to bear.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How much candy should I store for emergencies?
A: The amount of candy you store will depend on the size of your family and the length of time you anticipate being without power or resources. Aim for a few hundred calories of candy per person per day.
Q: Can I store candy in my car?
A: Avoid storing candy in your car, as extreme temperatures can damage the candy and reduce its shelf life.
Q: What other foods can I store for emergencies?
A: In addition to candy, consider storing non-perishable items such as canned goods, granola bars, and dried fruit.
