Non-Perishable Snacks for Emergency Situations and Travel

Non-perishable snacks are food items that have a long shelf life and do not require refrigeration. They are convenient for emergencies, camping, travel, and more.

Non-perishable Snacks FAQ

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Are non-perishable snacks healthy?

While many non-perishable snacks are filled with excessive sodium and poor ingredients, food manufacturers have seriously been stepping up their game and now offer tasty and healthy options. ( Note: Non-perishable doesn't mean the item will last forever, it does mean it has a longer shelf life and doesn't require refrigeration to be fresh).

Can non-perishable snacks be stored without refrigeration?

“Non-perishable snacks can be transported and stored without refrigeration,” says Oregon-based dietitian and recipe developer, Megan Byrd, RD. “If a food can be kept at room temperature for a few days without going bad, it’s considered non-perishable.” Well, that settles that. But allow your mind to wander beyond the nearest vending machine.

What are non-perishable foods?

While your mind probably goes first to canned items (which do make up a large portion of non-perishable foods) many other foods are included in this group. Think: beans, grains, nuts and nut butters, as well as spices, jerky, packaged crackers and snack foods. The good news?

Are non-perishable foods shelf-stable?

Non-perishable foods are shelf-stable, which means they can maintain their quality and safety at room temperature. When stored properly, non-perishable foods can last for months or even years in your pantry. Examples of non-perishable foods include canned beans, dry cereal, canned juices, dried fruit and peanut butter.