1.
emergency food; emergency rations
Food stored for use during emergencies such as natural disasters, power outages, or evacuation situations. Designed to have a long shelf life and require minimal preparation.
Common collocations: 非常食を備蓄する (to stockpile emergency food), 非常食セット (emergency food kit). Japan's frequent natural disasters make 非常食 a common topic in daily life, especially around September 1 (防災の日, Disaster Prevention Day). Typical items include canned bread, instant rice, and energy bars. Related: 保存食 (preserved food — broader term for any long-lasting food), 携帯食 (portable food).