Emergencies don’t wait for you to be ready.
Whether it’s a blizzard, earthquake, job loss, or pandemic, having a secure food supply gives you peace of mind when everything else feels uncertain.
When it comes to emergency food storage, Mountain House and Augason Farms are two of the most recognized names. But how do they compare?
🔍 Company Backgrounds: Legacy in Food Preparedness
Mountain House was born in the 1960s to supply freeze-dried meals to the U.S. military. Over the years, it evolved into a staple for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and preppers. Their meals are praised for flavor, convenience, and impressive shelf life—up to 30 years.
Augason Farms, launched in 1972, focuses on providing everyday food storage at an affordable price. Their range includes large emergency food kits, baking staples, and powdered goods like eggs and butter. It’s popular with families building long-term storage.
🍽️ Product Types: Complete Meals vs Ingredients
Mountain House specializes in complete freeze-dried meals. Think scrambled eggs, beef stroganoff, and pasta primavera—all ready to eat with hot water. They cater to a variety of diets with vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb options.
Augason Farms offers bulk ingredients—rice, beans, oats, powdered milk—and some meal kits like creamy chicken rice or potato soup. They appeal to DIY food planners who want to create or supplement their real plans.
Example:
If you’re hiking or facing a sudden power outage, Mountain House’s pouch of chili mac is quick and filling. On the other hand, if you’re stocking your basement for six months, Augason Farms’ 30-day emergency food pail offers a cost-effective foundation.
🥗 Nutrition and Dietary Flexibility
Mountain House meals are calorie-dense (up to 800 calories per pouch) and high in protein—perfect for high-energy situations. However, sodium levels are also high, which could be a concern for daily use.
Augason Farms provides flexibility. You can combine grains, powdered eggs, and veggies to balance your nutrients and stretch your calories over time. However, the meals require more planning to ensure variety and nutrition.
“A well-rounded emergency food plan should include a mix of ready-to-eat meals and ingredients to maintain both convenience and sustainability,” says Dr. Arthur Bradley, preparedness expert and author of Disaster Preparedness for the Family.
👅 Taste and Texture: What Real Users Say
Mountain House receives high marks for taste and texture. Meals are described as “restaurant-quality” and retain their original form when rehydrated. Reviewers often say they’d eat these meals even without an emergency.
Augason Farms gets mixed reviews. The standalone ingredients are flexible but require skill to turn into delicious meals. Some users recommend adding spices or broth cubes to enhance flavor.
Pro Tip: Keep seasonings, oils, or shelf-stable cheese on hand to boost taste when using bulk ingredients.
🔥 Preparation: Quick Meals vs Cooking Time
Mountain House wins for convenience. Meals usually require just hot water and 10 minutes. No dishes, no cleanup—ideal for bug-out bags or short-term crises.
Augason Farms meals can range from simple pancake mixes to dried beans that need soaking and cooking. This isn’t ideal during a blackout unless you have fuel and time to cook.
💧 Water Requirements
Water is crucial in emergencies. Mountain House uses less water per meal—usually about one cup per serving. Their packaging even includes fill lines for easy measuring.
Augason Farms needs more water overall, especially for rice, pasta, and dehydrated beans. Consider this: if clean water access is limited.
📦 Shelf Life and Storage
Mountain House meals last up to 30 years when unopened and stored in a cool, dry place. That’s one of the longest in the industry, making it great for long-term, set-it-and-forget-it planning.
Augason Farms items range from 10 to 25 years, depending on the product. They also use oxygen absorbers and sturdy #10 cans or food-grade buckets for optimal storage.
Both brands recommend storing products below 75° in a dry, dark place. Basements, pantries, and closets are all good options. Rotate your supply every few years just to be safe.
💰 Cost per Serving: Budget vs Premium
- Mountain House: $6–$10 per meal. You’re paying for taste, prep time, and longevity.
- Augason Farms: $1–$3 per serving. Bulk buying saves money but requires more labor and planning.
Want the best of both worlds? Stock Mountain House for grab-and-go meals and keep Augason Farms for everyday use and meal stretching.
📌 Pros & Cons Recap
Mountain House
- ✅ Exceptional taste and easy prep
- ✅ 30-year shelf life
- ✅ Portable and lightweight
- ❌ Pricier per serving
- ❌ Higher sodium levels
Augason Farms
- ✅ Affordable and great value
- ✅ Flexible for meal planning
- ✅ Ideal for large families and long-term storage
- ❌ Requires cooking and cleanup
- ❌ Inconsistent flavor without tweaks
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to eat these meals regularly?
Yes, though balance is key. Mountain House meals are rich in calories but high in sodium, so moderate daily use is fine. Augason Farms lets you customize meals for better daily nutrition.
Can I store these in a hot garage or shed?
Not recommended. Temperature swings and humidity will shorten shelf life. Aim for indoor areas like closets, under beds, or cool basements.
How do I start building an emergency food supply?
Start small with a week’s worth of meals. Mix fast-prep foods (like Mountain House) with staples (from Augason Farms). Gradually build toward 30 days, then 90. Don’t forget water!
🏁 Final Verdict: Use Both for a Balanced Strategy
Ultimately, choosing between Mountain House and Augason Farms depends on your goals. If you want grab-and-go simplicity with gourmet flavor, go with Mountain House. If you prefer a budget-friendly, build-it-yourself pantry, Augason Farms is your best friend.
For most preppers and families, the smartest strategy is to use both. Stock Mountain House for short-term events and bug-out bags, and load up on Augason Farms for long-haul survival or inflation-proofing your grocery budget.
Preparedness is not about fear—it’s about peace of mind. Having the right food on hand is one of the most comforting steps you can take.
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