When disaster strikes—whether it’s a natural catastrophe, a supply chain breakdown, or economic turmoil—grocery store shelves can empty out in hours. In these moments, certain foods seem to vanish first, snapped up by panicked shoppers and prepared preppers alike.
This list breaks down the top 10 foods that historically disappear fastest in a crisis, so you’ll know what to stock up on before things go south.
Instant coffee
Instant coffee is one of the first items to vanish from store shelves during a crisis. You can store it for a long time without worrying about it going bad quickly.
It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require special equipment, which makes it a reliable choice if resources become limited. Having some instant coffee on hand keeps your routine feeling normal during uncertain times.
Canned beans
Canned beans are a staple in many households because they’re easy to store and cook. You get a good source of protein and fiber without much effort.
During a crisis, they tend to disappear quickly from store shelves. You’ll want to stock up since they last a long time and fit into many meals.
Peanut butter
You’ll notice peanut butter disappears quickly during a crisis. It’s a reliable source of protein and calories, making it a staple for many.
Having a few jars in your pantry gives you a convenient, long-lasting option. It doesn’t require refrigeration and can be eaten alone or with other foods.
White bread
White bread is often one of the first items to disappear during a crisis. It’s a staple in many households and easy to store for short periods.
You’ll find it popular because it pairs well with many other foods. If you want to keep some on hand, consider freezing it to extend its shelf life.
Canned tuna
Canned tuna is a popular choice during a crisis because it’s easy to store and has a long shelf life. You can use it straight from the can or mix it into meals for added protein.
It’s also lightweight and doesn’t require refrigeration, making it handy for emergency situations. You might notice it disappears quickly from shelves when supplies run low.
Shelf-stable milk
Shelf-stable milk is a smart choice during a crisis because it lasts much longer than fresh milk. You don’t need refrigeration until after opening, which makes it convenient if power is out.
It comes in various types like cow’s milk, almond, or soy milk. You can use it just like regular milk for drinking, cooking, or baking.
Honey
Honey is one of the first foods to disappear during a crisis. It lasts almost indefinitely, so it’s a valuable sweetener and energy source to have on hand.
You can use it for cooking, healing minor wounds, or even as a natural preservative. Consider storing honey in glass jars to keep it fresh longer.
Cereal
When a crisis hits, cereal tends to vanish quickly from store shelves. It’s an easy, familiar food that you can eat right away or pair with milk.
You’ll find it popular with families because it’s convenient and satisfying. Stocking up on your favorite cereals can give you a quick breakfast option when other foods run low.
Frozen vegetables
When a crisis hits, frozen vegetables often disappear quickly from store shelves. They offer a convenient way to get nutrients when fresh produce is scarce or expensive.
You can keep a good variety in your freezer to ensure you have healthy options ready. They also last a long time, making them a smart choice for your pantry.
Salt
Salt is one of the first items to disappear during a crisis. You rely on it not just for flavor but also for preserving food.
Having salt on hand helps you extend the shelf life of meat and vegetables. Make sure to stock enough salt, as it’s lightweight and lasts indefinitely.