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Weekly Grocery Recall Roundup: Soups, nuts, spices, and snacks pulled from shelves

By Johnita Anthony,
  MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – Multiple new recalls this week involve undeclared allergens, potential contamination, and safety concerns affecting a range of grocery items. Shoppers who purchased the products below should check labels carefully and follow the recall guidance provided by manufacturers and regulatory agencies. New recalls issued this week Monster Cookies (Lunds & Byerlys) Recall date: December 10 Reason: Undeclared peanut, egg, and soy allergens. Product information can be cross-referenced with the store’s listing: https://www.lundsandbyerlys.com/product/l%26b-signature-monster-cookies-id-00018169481066 Meal Simple Red Lentil Dal Soup (H-E-B) Recall date: December 10 Reason: Possible undeclared milk allergens. As reported by the Houston Chronicle : https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/trending/article/soup-sold-h-e-b-recalled-customer-reports-21235415.php Grandma Belle's Tomato Basil Soup Recall date: December 9 Reason: Undec...

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Essential Items for a 72-Hour Survival Kit as Recommended by the Government

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By Johnita Anthony,

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According to NOAA, the number of billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in the United States has been rising over the past few decades. In 2023 alone, the U.S. experienced 28 separate billion-dollar disasters — the highest number on record. 2023 Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters. In light of this increasing frequency and severity, both FEMA and the American Red Cross strongly recommend that every household prepare a 72-hour survival kit. These kits are essential to ensure that individuals and families can sustain themselves in the critical first three days after a disaster before external help arrives.

Your survival kit should include enough food and water for three days, along with essential items like medications, flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit. Additionally, items such as sanitation supplies and important documents are also recommended.

The goal is to be self-sufficient while waiting for assistance. Such preparedness not only enhances personal safety but also aids local emergency management efforts by minimizing immediate demand on limited resources. 

A well-stocked survival kit can protect your household, ease stress during crises, and reduce strain on first responders. Here are five key tips to help you build a reliable 72-hour emergency supply kit.

1. Stockpile Core Life-Sustaining Resources: Water & Food

Water: Store one gallon of water per person per day, totaling three gallons for the 72-hour period. This includes water for drinking and minimal hygiene.

Food: Choose non-perishable, calorie-dense items such as canned beans, peanut butter, protein bars, and freeze-dried meals. Avoid salty snacks that may increase thirst.

💡 Pro tip: Include manual can openers and basic utensils if your food isn’t ready-to-eat.

2. Pack Essential Medications and Health Supplies

Your kit should include:

  • A first aid kit with antiseptics, bandages, tweezers, and gloves.
  • Prescription medications (a 3-day supply minimum).
  • Over-the-counter essentials like ibuprofen, antihistamines, electrolyte packets, and anti-diarrheals.
  • Glasses or contact lens solution if needed.

If you or a family member has specific medical conditions, personalize your kit accordingly. This step is often overlooked and can be life-saving.

3. Include Critical Tools and Lighting Equipment

Communication and visibility are vital during a blackout or evacuation:

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight
  • Extra batteries for all electronic devices
  • Portable phone charger or solar charger
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Multipurpose tool or Swiss Army knife
  • Also consider a battery-operated NOAA weather radio to stay informed about evolving emergency alerts.

4. Don’t Forget Hygiene and Important Documents

Cleanliness helps prevent the spread of illness when sanitation systems fail. Include:

  • Moist towelettes
  • Toilet paper
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Trash bags and plastic ties
  • Just as critical: Store copies of key documents (in waterproof pouches or digitally on a flash drive):
  • ID cards
  • Insurance policies
  • Medical records
  • Emergency contacts

5. Customize for Your Household and Stay Updated

No two households are the same. Consider adding:

  • Supplies for infants (diapers, formula)
  • Pet food and leashes
  • Comfort items for kids (toys, games, books)
  • Seasonal gear (blankets in winter, sunscreen in summer)

Finally, review and refresh your kit every 6 months. Check expiration dates, rotate out old supplies, and update based on family changes.

Learn more by visiting The Red Cross emergency preparedness website- https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies.html.

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