One year has passed since the devastating Noto Peninsula earthquake struck Japan, which caused widespread destruction and left many residents on high alert for future disasters. Adding to the urgency, this year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, which reminds citizens of the unforgiving nature of seismic events and the necessity for preparedness.
On August 8, authorities issued new information concerning the Nankai Trough earthquakes, sparking renewed discussions about safety measures across the nation. With memories of both recent and historical tragedies fresh, many individuals are recognizing the importance of having adequate emergency supplies at the ready. From drinking water to clothing and flashlights, the list goes on, but one aspect is becoming increasingly apparent: the weight of emergency supplies matters, especially for children, women, and the elderly. Carrying multiple bottles of water can become burdensome, prompting the need for lightweight alternatives.
One innovative solution to this pressing issue has come from the Amano Foods brand, which specializes in freeze-dried products. Takuyuki Miya, who oversees the Amano Foods lineup, provides insight about the benefits and drawbacks of utilizing freeze-dried food as part of emergency kits. The positive aspects of this kind of food include being lightweight and easy to store long-term, which is imperative when evacuations may involve carrying supplies over significant distances.
According to Miya, once you add hot water, these freeze-dried meals can transform rapidly from dehydrated products to nourishing, warm dishes, making them incredibly convenient for those needing quick sustenance. The company has partnered with Shoko Iwano from the Nara Prefecture Disaster Prevention Association, who has extensive experience from supporting areas affected by the 2011 Tohoku disaster and training locals on emergency preparedness. The two combined their efforts to launch products specially curated for disaster supplies, with portion sizes aimed at keeping weight manageable—approximately 200 grams per person per two-day portion.
Qualities such as prolonged shelf stability and ease of preparation make Amano’s products attractive to consumers, evidenced by recent survey results conducted by the company. The survey revealed insights on preferences for emergency rations, with over 35% of disaster veterans identifying long-term storage capabilities as the top priority when selecting emergency food items. Following those priorities were taste preferences at 19.3% and ease of preparation at 16.8%.
Further data from the same survey indicated what comfort foods participants would most likely cherish during difficult times. Leading the list was rice (50%), followed closely by miso soup (45.9%) and instant noodles (24.4%). Miya noted, "For the Japanese, warm meals like miso soup not only provide nourishment but also have calming effects, thanks to their fermented ingredients, aiding both physical and mental well-being during stressful situations like disasters."
Yet challenges remain. Miya cautions against overconfidence when relying solely on freeze-dried goods, pointing out their vulnerabilities: "They are sensitive to moisture and can degrade quickly once opened, necessitating secure storage to maintain freshness. Also, water is necessary for their preparation, which poses another consideration during emergencies when resources are scarce. Therefore, it is particularly important to store drinking water as part of your emergency kit." The price point for Amano’s comprehensive emergency food offerings stands at around ¥5,282, which reflects the complex processing involved, leading to higher costs compared to other non-perishable food options.
The article also highlights the method known as “rolling stock,” where individuals incorporate non-perishable instant meals from their regular shopping routine as part of their emergency storage. This strategy keeps supplies rotation current, ensuring always having fresh items on hand, and familiar foods can lessen anxiety during emergencies.
Amano Foods offers various sets for this approach, including items like crab, salmon, and mixed vegetable porridge. Miya advises assembling other essentials like six liters of bottled water per family member, along with heating equipment such as portable gas stoves, and practical items like newspaper for cooking and wrap. The aim is to build well-rounded emergency packs instead of relying heavily on just one type of supply.
With the pressing reality of natural disasters looming, ensuring the backpack does not exceed burdensome weights is key for swift evacuations and movement through potentially difficult terrains. Looking toward the end of the year, families can capitalize on holiday gatherings to reassess their disaster preparedness plans and confirm all emergency supplies are adequate and up-to-date. It’s not just about having supplies; it’s about having the right supplies, ready and easy to carry, should the unthinkable happen.
