Disaster Dining

SPAM, pickles, and salsa. Oh my!

Would you know how to create a nutritious and delicious meal for your family in the event of a disaster?

The Canadian Red Cross, in partnership with Walmart, recently put some members of the community to the test during the first ever Disaster Dining Contest held at a Scarborough Walmart store. The contest kicked off a 3-week, in-store fundraising campaign in support of local Red Cross disaster relief operations.

Contestants had 30 minutes to assemble a dish using some food items recommended in an emergency preparedness kit. The Red Cross advocates that every household should have one of these kits so families can take care of themselves for at least 72 hours in an emergency, such as a power outage.

To make cooking conditions similar to a disaster situation, no electricity or tap water could be used. Contestants had a select list of non-perishable ingredients to choose from ranging from peanut butter, to canned fruit, sardines, and even spam.

“The point of the challenge is to show that people can eat well in an emergency situation, if they plan ahead of time,” said John Saunders, Red Cross provincial director of disaster management.

The contestants didn’t disappoint with their culinary creativity. Dan Hefkey, Chief of Emergency Management Ontario, made tacos stuffed with crab, corn, and salsa. Representing Toronto Fire Services was Platoon Chief Norm Clements, who proved he is not to be “trifled” with in the kitchen, by making a delicious trifle of granola bars, raspberry jam, butterscotch pudding, and canned fruit.

Red Cross volunteer Rupa Jannarkar whipped up some dishes for vegetarians, including a vegetarian wrap with chickpeas, spices, and olive oil. Walmart Assistant Front-End Manager Okey Dike made a comfort food dish of canned lasagna and baked beans with a blend of spices.

The “Golden Spoon Award” went to Walmart District Manager Eeva Jalo, who was named champion by judge and journalist, Dana Lacey, for her dish of salsa, tuna, chickpeas, parsley, cayenne, and black pepper.

Since 2003, Walmart Canada has raised $13 million for the Red Cross, helping families get back on their feet after disaster strikes by providing critical support including shelter, clothing, food, and personal items such as diapers and toiletries.

(Special guest post from the Canadian Red Cross)

Take a look at the pictures from the event below...