1. Water

One of the most important foods to keep on hand is water. You never know how valuable fresh water is until you can't access it anymore. It's easy to become very dehydrated when the power goes out without access to any fresh water. You should keep approximately two gallons of water per person in your household per day that the power is out. Everyone is going to need water for not only drinking, but also for brushing teeth, sponge bathing, etc. Don't forget the pups either! The more water on hand, the better!

2. Shelf Stable Almond Milk

Breakfast is easy when you have shelf stable almond milk on hand. Most of us usually always have a box or two of cereal on hand, which can be paired perfectly with shelf stable almond milk when the power goes out. I know a lot of people that enjoy cereal not only during the breakfast hour but as a snack or lunch or dinner too!

3. Canned Beans

Canned beans are definitely a staple when the power goes out. High in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, beans will keep you healthy while the power is out. Don't forget to keep a hand held can opener on hand too, because as you know an electric one won't work when the power goes out!

4. Unsweetened Apple Sauce

Unsweetened apple sauce is a perfectly healthy option, especially when the power goes out! This is a great one to keep on hand especially if you have children, since they usually love this sweet treat too! Enjoyed as a snack, with a meal or even as dessert, apple sauce is a great product to stock up on.

5. Peanut Butter/Jelly

A jar of peanut butter has saved me more times than I can even count - even with the power on! Peanut butter is the prefect shelf stable item that will tie you over when the power goes out. Like beans, peanut butter is high in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals and it is also a great source of healthy fat! Combined with jelly and some whole grain bread, a PB & J will do the trick when the power goes out!

6. Grapefruit Sections

When the power goes out, fresh fruits and vegetables become very limited after the refrigerator is emptied, therefore, it's important to find ways to still consume those vital nutrients. Water or juice packed grapefruit sections make a great choice. High in not only fiber, vitamins and minerals, grapefruit is very high in water which will help keep you hydrated during this water sparse time!

7. Clif Bars

When the power goes out, sometimes we are forced to reach for more processed things, but it doesn't have to be in the form of candy bars and potato chips. Although high in sugar and calories, Clif Bars are a perfect snack to keep on hand for when the power goes out because they will tide you over throughout the day. These shelf stable bars will last in your pantry for quite some time, so don't be afraid to buy and hide an extra box today!

When a snow storm hits, regardless of if you lose your power or not, it's important to be well stocked in the kitchen to keep everyone healthy and happy during these trying times. Do you keep extra foods on hand for times like these?