Ready for an apocalypse? Costco selling emergency 'Food Buckets' to last 25 years
(WPHL) – Worried about a zombie apocalypse, an alien invasion or any of several more plausible doomsday scenarios that may or may not be brewing?
Maybe a bunch of shelf-stable pasta dishes will put your mind at ease.
Costco is selling an Emergency Preparedness Food Bucket from a brand called ReadyWise, which is advertised as containing a variety of freeze-dried and dehydrated meals that can last up to 25 years.
"This meticulously curated package goes beyond just food — it's about readiness in the face of uncertainty," reads a description on the Costco website.
ReadyWise says the bucket comes with 80 entrees and sides, 30 breakfasts and 40 drinks, for a total calorie count of just over 25,000. All of the meals can be prepared by "simply adding water," according to ReadyWise.
Per the description, the bucket includes:
- Pasta Alfredo - 12 Servings
- Cheesy Macaroni - 12 Servings
- Teriyaki Rice (GF) - 6 Servings
- Creamy Pasta and Vegetables - 6 Servings
- Potato Pot Pie (GF) - 6 Servings
- Tomato Basil Soup with Pasta (GF) - 6 Servings
- Chicken Noodle Soup - 6 Servings
- Brown Sugar & Maple Multi-Grain -12 Servings
- Apple Cinnamon Cereal - 12 Servings
- Crunchy Granola – 6 Servings
- White Rice - 10 Servings
- Vanilla Pudding - 16 Servings
- Whey Milk Alternative – 24 Servings
- Orange Drink - 16 Servings
"This assortment isn't just a temporary fix — it's a long-term solution," the description claims. "It's a tangible expression of your dedication to ensuring you and your loved ones are cared for, no matter what lies ahead. But it's not just about survival; it's about maintaining a sense of normalcy, comfort, and even enjoyment during challenging times."
ReadyWise says the bucket is "vital" during potential emergencies, including weather events, food shortages or even "the challenges of unexpected job transitions." (Because of its branding and description, food blogger Jeffrey Eisner also dubbed the buckets "apocalypse dinner kits" in a viral social media post.)
The buckets, which are currently selling for $79.99 at Costco.com (after $20 in savings), have a 4.4-star review on the site. Some of the reviews praised the peace of mind the buckets provided, though many complained that their buckets contained punctured packets. Not many had yet commented on the quality of the food itself, though.
"Bucket seems nice, after the apocalypse I will post an updated review on taste," one reviewer joked.
ReadyWise's website, meanwhile, has additional emergency food supplies for sale, including self-heating meals, water filtration equipment and cooking supplies.
"Whether it's a natural disaster, power outage, civil unrest, or unexpected crisis, having reliable access to nutritious and delicious food can make all the difference," reads the website.