Introduction
When it comes to survival, preparation is key. Whether you're planning for a natural disaster, a prolonged power outage, or a wilderness adventure, having a reliable source of nutrition is crucial. In this blog post, we'll explore two essential survival food options: Coast Guard approved emergency food bars and homemade hardtack. We'll delve into their history, their benefits, and how to make your own hardtack at home.
The Importance of Emergency Food Rations
In a survival situation, your body needs a steady supply of calories to function optimally. This is where emergency food rations come in. These are specially formulated food products designed to provide a balanced intake of nutrients over a specific period. A 30-day food ration, for instance, is designed to sustain an individual for a month.
Coast Guard Approved Emergency Food Bars
When it comes to emergency food rations, the U.S. Coast Guard sets the standard. Coast Guard approved emergency food bars are compact, lightweight, and packed with essential nutrients. They are designed to withstand extreme conditions and have a long shelf life, making them an ideal choice for survival situations.
Coast Guard approved food bars are typically high in calories and contain a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. They are also often fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Importantly, these food bars are designed to be non-thirst provoking and can be eaten without any preparation, making them a practical choice for emergencies.
The Role of Hardtack
Hardtack, a type of hard, dry bread, has been a staple survival food for centuries. Made from simple ingredients—flour, water, and salt—hardtack is incredibly durable and can last for years if stored properly. It was a common food item for soldiers during the Civil War and was used by sailors during long sea voyages.
Making Your Own Hardtack
While you can purchase pre-made hardtack, it's also possible to make your own at home. The recipe we'll be using comes from Primal Survivor, a site dedicated to survival skills and preparedness. Here's how you can make your own hardtack:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups White Flour
- 1.5 cups Sweet Sorghum Flour
- 9 Rounded Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
- ½ Cup Refined Coconut Oil
- 3 Tbsp Iodized Salt
- 1.5 cups of water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Add dry ingredients to your bowl.
3. The amount of water you need can vary. Add a ½ cup at a time and work it in.
4. Knead dough until it's pliable enough to be smooth and worked with a rolling pin.
5. Roll out until approximately 1 inch thick.
6. Cut into square biscuit shapes.
7. Dock or poke holes in the dough.
8. Bake in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes.
9. Allow to cool completely.
Remember, hardtack is extremely hard and was traditionally soaked in a liquid like coffee or soup before eating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Coast Guard approved food bars and homemade hardtack offer reliable sources of nutrition in survival situations. They are durable, long-lasting, and packed with essential nutrients. Whether you're preparing for a potential emergency or planning a wilderness adventure, these food options can provide the sustenance you need to stay healthy and energized. Remember, preparation is key, and having a 30-day food ration on hand can make all the difference in a survival situation. Stay safe and prepared!
