A food “lifeboat”: food and nutrition considerations in the event of a pandemic or other catastrophe

Influenza pandemics are a real risk and are best managed by self-isolation and social distancing to reduce the risk of infection and spread. Such isolation depends on availability of food of adequate quantity and quality. Australia has one of the most concentrated food supplies of any country, making rapid food depletion more likely in a crisis. Food stockpiling by both authorities and citizens is an important safety precaution that should be given greater media coverage. Food and nutrition guidelines are provided for survival rations in the event of a pandemic or other catastrophe.