The last place you want to find out that the peanuts you packed for your snack went rancid is when you're stuck on the side of the road. Here are a few things to consider when packing food for your roadside emergency kit.
Perishability is a major concern when dealing with temperature extremes. Even temperatures in the 80's can dramatically decrease the shelf-life of some foods. By the same token, below freezing temperatures can make some foods near inedible. Where temperature extremes are a concern it's best to consider foods with an extended temperature shelf-life, like commercially prepared ration bars. Otherwise, energy bars, granola, nuts, and jerky are great choices.
Palatability is your other concern. Your roadside kit needs to be able to sustain you in case help is going to take a while, while also not requiring much in terms of preparation. Again, granola, energy bars, and jerky make great selections. The key here is high energy foods with limited fats that can go rancid.
You're going to need to eat, and when you're stuck on the side of the road you're probably going to want to eat more because you're stressed and bored. Make sure your food is non-perishable and palatable so you have less to worry about.
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