How Dietitians Recommend Stocking Your Fridge and Pantry During the Coronavirus Pandemic

During times like these, in the midst of a viral pandemic, it is important to not panic but to be prepared. Many of us are practicing social distancing and want to limit our exposure to large crowds. Here is a quick list of things to keep on hand during emergencies like this. These nutritious items help you stock up your freezer and pantry for 2+ weeks.

Protein Sources:
Canned and dried beans
Canned salmon: great source of protein and omega 3 fatty acids
Canned sardines
Canned albacore tuna
Dry lentils
Nuts
Nut butters
Boxed plant-based soy milk
Trail mix
Frozen edamame: excellent source of plant-based protein
Ground turkey
Lean ground beef
Frozen fish
Black bean burgers
PB2
Low sodium jerky
Hard cheeses
Fruits & Vegetables:
Canned tomatoes: excellent source of potassium
Frozen broccoli
Frozen peas
Frozen corn
Frozen green beans
Frozen mixed vegetables
Frozen wild blueberries
Frozen cherries
Frozen peaches
Frozen Spinach
Frozen strawberries
Fruit cups (packed in 100% fruit juice or water)
Dried fruit (no sugar added)
Healthy Fats:
Tahini
Nuts
Nut butters
Flax seeds
Chia seeds
Pumpkin seeds
Sunflower seeds
Extra-virgin olive oil
Avocado oil
Walnut oil
Sesame oil
High Fiber Grains:
Whole wheat flour
Brown rice
Quinoa
Pasta
Oats
Whole grain cereal
Whole Wheat/high fiber bread
Farro
Millet
Popping corn
Whole grain crackers
Other Staples:
Boxed plant-based almond milk
Boxed vegetable broth
Spices & seasonings
Low sodium soups
We understand that those who are older than 60, have a chronic disease and autoimmune diseases (such as celiac disease, IBD, RA, diabetes, MS, lupus etc.) and especially those with respiratory conditions (such as COPD, asthma, lung disease) are at higher risk of complications from the coronavirus. For more information, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html
Those of you at higher risk should especially consider taking advantage of grocery delivery services from Amazon, Peapod, Walmart, Instacart and Whole Foods. This can help limit your exposure. But as always, be sure to practice good hygiene and wash your hands frequently!
Stay safe and healthy!