The following foods are outstanding staples to donate or focus on stocking at a food pantry.
Grains
- Whole grain bread (whole wheat flour is the first ingredient)
- Whole grain cereal (has 3 or more grams of fiber)
- Rolled oatmeal and hot cereal
- Low-sugar granola bars
- Whole wheat pasta
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Couscous
- Whole wheat crackers and pretzels
Fruits and Vegetables
- Low- or no-sodium canned vegetables and beans
- Canned fruit in water or natural juices
- Fruit cups in water or natural juices
- Unsweetened apple sauce
- Low-sodium vegetable juice
- Dried fruit (unsweetened or reduced sugar)
Meats and Proteins
- Low-sodium canned chicken, tuna and other seafood in water
- Low-sodium beef stew, chili or bean soup
- Peanut butter
- Unsalted nuts and seeds
- Dairy (low-fat)
- Powdered milk
- Shelf stable cow’s milk or soy milk
Beverages
- Bottled water
- Tea (unsweetened and reduced sugar)
- 100% Fruit juice
Other
- Low-sodium, shelf stable pasta sauces
- Low-sodium chicken and beef broth
- Healthy oils (i.e. olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, peanut oil) No glass bottles accepted.