Food Security Crisis

A food security crisis occurs when access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food is limited or cut off due to supply chain breakdowns, economic instability, extreme weather, war, or agricultural collapse. In the U.S., this may manifest as empty store shelves, soaring prices, rationing, or distribution failure in local or national systems.

Food shortages can develop suddenly or gradually, affecting not only what people can eat but also public health, social stability, and family finances.

Contributing Causes

  • Droughts, floods, and natural disasters
  • Transportation disruptions (strikes, cyberattacks, fuel shortages)
  • Labor shortages in farming or processing
  • Disease outbreaks (e.g., livestock culling due to avian flu)
  • Trade disruptions or export bans
  • Inflation or currency devaluation

Preparedness Tips

Build a food reserve

  • Stock a 30-day supply of shelf-stable foods your household regularly eats:
    • Canned goods (vegetables, meats, soups)
    • Dry staples (rice, beans, oats, pasta)
    • Shelf-stable milk or plant-based alternatives
    • Cooking oils, spices, and baking basics
  • Rotate stock monthly to prevent spoilage

Grow your own

  • Start a small container or raised-bed garden for herbs, greens, and produce
  • Learn food preservation methods: canning, dehydrating, vacuum sealing
  • Consider seed storage for emergency planting

Cooking without power

  • Own at least one off-grid cooking option:
    • Propane or butane stove
    • Solar cooker
    • Outdoor firepit with cooking grate

During a Food Crisis

  • Ration stored food and plan meals to reduce waste
  • Supplement with local farmer’s markets or barter exchanges
  • Avoid panic buying—prices rise and supply worsens
  • Support local food co-ops and distribution networks if available

Nutrition and Health

  • Prioritize protein, fiber, and vitamins over comfort foods
  • Stay hydrated—use clean water to prepare and rehydrate foods
  • Supplement with vitamins during prolonged shortages

Community Action

  • Join or form a mutual aid group to share resources
  • Volunteer with or seek help from food banks and meal programs
  • Report price gouging or hoarding to local authorities

Key Resources

  • Feeding America – National Food Bank Locator
     feedingamerica.org
  • USDA Food Assistance Programs
    usda.gov
  • Local Food Directories and Emergency Meal Programs – Check your county’s Human Services or Emergency Management office

Recommended Apps

  • Ample Harvest – Donates excess homegrown produce to local food pantries
    ampleharvest.org
  • Olio – Food sharing app to reduce waste and redistribute surplus
    olioex.com
  • Too Good To Go – Rescues unsold food from local restaurants
    toogoodtogo.com