Stocking Up: Items That Quickly Disappear off Shelves

no food, big problemPhoto byJen Terry canva

As we have all experienced in the very recent past, when an emergency strikes, whether it’s a natural disaster or any other urgent situation, the first reaction often involves scrambling to secure essential supplies. This rush can lead to certain products vanishing from store shelves faster than you can say “panic buying.” Understanding what tends to disappear and why can help you plan better and avoid the stress of last-minute shopping.

Food Products That Disappear

1. Canned Goods: Canned foods are a go-to during emergencies due to their long shelf life and ease of preparation. Items like canned vegetables, beans, soups, and meats are particularly popular. Their durability and minimal need for cooking make them ideal for situations where power may be out or access to fresh food is limited.
2. Dry Goods: Staples such as bread, rice, pasta, and flour also fly off the shelves. These items are not only non-perishable but also versatile, making them a staple in emergency preparedness. People stock up on them to ensure they have enough to last through extended periods of uncertainty.
3. Bottled Water: Water is a critical necessity, and it’s often the first item to disappear during emergencies. In scenarios where water sources might be compromised or become contaminated, having an ample supply of bottled water is essential for hydration and basic needs.
4. Baby Food and Formula: Parents prioritize their infants' needs, so baby food, formula, and diapers are quickly collected. These items are crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of young children during emergencies.
5. Shelf-Stable Dairy Products: Items like powdered milk and long-life milk are often bought in large quantities. These alternatives to fresh milk can be stored for extended periods and provide essential nutrients when fresh dairy is not available.
6. Snacks and Comfort Foods: While not essential, snacks such as chips, crackers, and candy often disappear as people seek comfort during stressful times. These items can also be practical for providing quick energy when preparing more substantial meals is not feasible.

Non-Food Products That Disappear

1. Toiletries: Essential personal care items such as toilet paper, tissues, soap, rubbing alcohol, and sanitizers are in high demand during emergencies. Stockpiling these products ensures hygiene and comfort, particularly when regular supplies may be interrupted.
2. Batteries: Flashlights, lanterns, and radios are crucial for navigating power outages. Batteries, which power these devices, quickly become a hot commodity. People often buy them in bulk to ensure they have enough to last through extended outages.
3. First Aid Supplies: As people prepare for potential injuries or illnesses, items like bandages, antiseptics, and over-the-counter medications become scarce. A well-stocked first aid kit is a necessity in any emergency preparedness plan.
4. Cleaning Supplies: Disinfectants, bleach, and cleaning wipes are in high demand to maintain sanitary conditions. These products are essential for dealing with potential contamination and maintaining a clean environment.
5. Generators and Fuel: For those who are able to purchase them, generators are crucial for maintaining power during outages. Fuel for these generators and vehicles also become a highly sought-after item.
6. Pet Supplies: Pet owners also rush to stock up on pet food, litter, and other supplies to ensure their furry companions are cared for during an emergency. Pets are an important part of many households, and their needs are not overlooked.

Why do these items disappear?

The rapid disappearance of these items can be attributed to a combination of factors, including:

• Panic buying: The fear of shortages can drive people to buy more than they need, creating a rush that quickly depletes supplies.
• Unpredictability: Emergencies are by nature unpredictable, and people may over-purchase in an effort to prepare for any possible scenario.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Even if supply chains are functioning well, the sudden spike in demand can lead to temporary shortages as stores struggle to keep up.

How to Prepare

To avoid the stress of scrambling for essentials during an emergency, consider the following tips:

• Plan Ahead: Stock up on non-perishable food items and other necessities in advance, well before an emergency arises.
• Create an Emergency Kit: Include a mix of food, water, first aid supplies, and other essentials tailored to your family’s needs.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on news and alerts to gauge potential emergencies and adjust your preparations accordingly.

By understanding which products are likely to vanish and preparing in advance, you can better navigate emergencies and ensure you and your family are well-equipped to handle any situation that comes your way. These items are always good to have around anyway, so stock up now in case shtf again.

shortage of suppliesPhoto byJen Terry canva

Bedford, Lisa. “50 Things That Immediately Disappear from Stores in an Emergency.” The Survival Mom, 22 Apr. 2013, thesurvivalmom.com/the-top-50-things-to-disappear-from-store-shelves-during-an-emergency/. Accessed Aug. 21, 2024.

Loosli, Linda. “100 Items That Will Disappear after an Emergency.” Food Storage Moms, February 26, 2024, www.foodstoragemoms.com/100-items-that-will-disappear-in-an-emergency/. Accessed Aug. 21, 2024.

The Survival Tabs. “100 Items That Will Disappear First in the U. S. When the SHTF.” The SurvivalTabs, The SurvivalTabs, 25 June 2016, thesurvivaltabs.com/blogs/news/100-items-that-will-disappear-first-in-the-u-s-when-the-shtf?srsltid=AfmBOor26ttNxSDnv5mmbbrvhKdI6yuMXjb3v5JuqJQZj8T-IeQMbEy0. Accessed Aug. 21, 2024.