Costco, the retail giant famous for bulk bargains and unbeatable food court deals, is once again making waves online with its Costco Emergency Food offering. The Readywise Emergency Food Bucket has resurfaced, sparking discussions across social media platforms about emergency preparedness and the best food options for unforeseen circumstances.
For a price of $79.99, Costco members can purchase this “reliable source of sustenance” online, boasting an impressive 25-year shelf life and containing 150 servings of freeze-dried foods. This isn’t the first time Costco has ventured into emergency food supplies. In 2022, a similar kit with 124 servings was available for $63.99, gaining traction on platforms like TikTok. The current iteration is described on Costco’s website as a “meticulously curated package” designed for “readiness in the face of uncertainty.”
Costco Readywise Emergency Food Bucket: A 25-year shelf-life food supply kit for disaster preparedness.
While proactive planning for emergencies like natural disasters is undoubtedly wise, the question remains: is the Costco emergency food bucket the most effective way to prepare? Factors such as access to resources needed to prepare the food, like heat and potable water, are crucial considerations. For instance, widespread damage from a hurricane could compromise power and water supplies, potentially rendering this type of kit less practical in the immediate aftermath.
Jayce Genco, Deputy Press Secretary for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), emphasized the importance of preparedness in a statement to ABC News. While FEMA doesn’t endorse specific brands or products, Genco noted the agency is “happy to see that more and more companies and people are taking steps to prepare ahead of disasters.”
The online buzz around Costco emergency food kits isn’t entirely new. Content creator Jeffrey Eisner previously showcased a similar “Costco Apocalypse Dinner Kit” with 132 servings for $62.99, triggering a wave of social media speculation about potential impending emergencies. While internet theories about apocalyptic scenarios circulate online, emergency preparedness experts highlight that stocking up on emergency food is simply a sensible practice, regardless of online trends.
Building Your Own Emergency Food Kit: Expert Tips
“FEMA encourages people to plan ahead and stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation,” Genco advised. “Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. Consider the following things when putting together your emergency food supplies: store at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food, choose foods your family will eat and remember any special dietary needs.”
Ready.gov, a national public service campaign dedicated to disaster preparedness education, provides detailed guidance on creating a DIY emergency kit. Their recommendations align with FEMA’s advice, emphasizing practicality and accessibility in emergency situations.
Essential Items for a Basic Disaster Supplies Kit (according to Ready.gov):
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
Genco further elaborated on suitable food choices, stating that during emergencies, “water and heat may not be accessible.” Therefore, it’s wise to include “ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, peanut butter, canned juices, non-perishable pasteurized milk, high-energy foods, and foods for infants. It is also important to have food stocked for pets.” Ready.gov also recommends storing items in airtight plastic bags and keeping the entire kit in easily portable containers like plastic bins or duffel bags.
Maintaining an emergency food supply can seem daunting due to storage space and cost. Genco suggests a gradual approach: “Building an emergency kit that includes food can be built over time,” she said. “If possible, pick up one extra item such as canned food or gallon of water when you visit the grocery store. Community food banks are a potential resource for food-insecure families to stock their emergency supply kit.”
Inside the Costco Readywise Emergency Food Bucket: What’s Included?
For those considering the convenience of a pre-made option, the Readywise Emergency Food Bucket available at Costco offers a comprehensive selection. For $79.99 online, you receive:
- 80 servings of entrees and side dishes
- 30 servings of breakfasts
- 40 drink servings
These servings are packaged in freeze-dried pouches and include a variety of meal options:
- Pasta Alfredo – 12 Servings
- Cheesy Macaroni – 12 Servings
- Teriyaki Rice (GF) – 6 Servings
- Creamy Pasta and Vegetables – 6 Servings
- Potato Pot Pie (GF) – 6 Servings
- Tomato Basil Soup with Pasta (GF) – 6 Servings
- Chicken Noodle Soup – 6 Servings
- Brown Sugar & Maple Multi-Grain – 12 Servings
- Apple Cinnamon Cereal – 12 Servings
- Crunchy Granola – 6 Servings
- White Rice – 10 Servings
- Vanilla Pudding – 16 Servings
- Whey Milk Alternative – 24 Servings
- Orange Drink – 16 Servings
Is Costco Emergency Food Bucket a Smart Choice?
The Costco emergency food bucket offers a convenient, long-lasting food supply option. Its 25-year shelf life and variety of meals are definite advantages. However, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and circumstances. If you anticipate situations where water and heat sources might be limited, supplementing this kit with ready-to-eat canned goods and other no-cook options is advisable.
Ultimately, whether the Costco Readywise Emergency Food Bucket is the right choice depends on individual preparedness strategies and preferences. It serves as a solid foundation for a long-term food supply, particularly for those seeking a straightforward, all-in-one solution from a trusted retailer like Costco. Regardless of your chosen method, prioritizing emergency food preparedness is a vital step in ensuring your household’s resilience in the face of unexpected events.
