Most Common shelf-stable items used in meal kits

Meal Kit Staples

These items form the base for most shelf-stable meals:

• Canned chicken, tuna, or beef

• Canned beans (black, kidney, pinto, chickpeas)

• Canned vegetables (corn, green beans, peas, mixed veggies)

• Canned tomatoes (diced, crushed, or sauce)

• Instant rice or ready rice packets

• Pasta and boxed mac & cheese

• Instant mashed potatoes

• Shelf-stable soups or chili

• Ramen noodles or noodle cups

• Boxed stuffing or rice mixes (Knorr, Zatarain’s, etc.)

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Seasonings & Cooking Oils

Small items that help make meals flavorful and complete:

• Salt and pepper packets

• Garlic powder & onion powder

• Taco seasoning

• Italian seasoning

• Chicken or beef bouillon cubes/powder

• Small bottles of olive oil or vegetable oil

• Mini bottles of hot sauce or soy sauce

• Shelf-stable butter spray or ghee packets

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Kid-Friendly Snacks & Breakfast Items

Great for kids or families with little ones:

• Instant oatmeal packets

• Shelf-stable milk or milk boxes

• Cereal cups or small boxes

• Applesauce cups or pouches

• Fruit cups (in juice, not syrup)

• Granola bars or protein bars

• Peanut butter & crackers

• Trail mix or raisins

• Pudding cups or Jell-O cups

• Shelf-stable juice boxes

Quick Add-Ons

Handy items to round out meals or snacks:

• Tortillas or flatbread (individually wrapped)

• Shelf-stable cheese sauce

• Crackers or cornbread mix

• Instant gravy packets

• Rice cakes or pretzels

Non-Food Essentials

Useful for packing and helping families prepare meals easily:

• 2-gallon Ziploc bags (for packing meal kits)

• Manual can openers

• Plastic cutlery packs

• Napkins or paper towels

• Wet wipes

• Disposable bowls or plates