Emergency Food Kit Sparks Online Buzz
Costco’s Readywise Emergency Food Bucket, nicknamed the “apocalypse bucket,” has garnered significant attention on social media. Priced at $79.99, this kit provides 150 freeze-dried and dehydrated meal servings, designed to last up to 25 years. Its tagline promises “readiness in the face of uncertainty.”
The bucket contains 80 entrees and sides, 30 breakfast servings, and 40 drink servings
The bucket contains 80 entrees and sides, 30 breakfast servings, and 40 drink servings, totaling 25,280 calories. Meal options include teriyaki rice, tomato basil soup, pasta Alfredo, cheesy macaroni, and apple cinnamon cereal. All meals only require water for preparation, making them ideal for emergencies.
The product went viral after cookbook author Jeffrey Eisner shared a video at his local Costco, noting, “They have buckets that they’re just calling emergency food supply. … I guess this is for when the apocalypse hits, which could be any time now?” His comments, along with others on social media, sparked discussions about the practicality and novelty of the product.
Concerns and criticisms
While some users appreciated the variety and convenience, others raised concerns about the practicality of obtaining water in an actual apocalypse. Comments ranged from skepticism about the 25-year shelf life to jokes about the chemical content. One user remarked, “So if the apocalypse doesn’t kill you, this bucket of chemicals will.”
Practical uses beyond emergencies
Despite the apocalyptic marketing, some users highlighted the bucket’s practical uses for outdoor activities like camping. One commenter noted, “You are so funny! We use them for camping.” While available in Costco stores, online orders of the bucket take 10 to 15 business days for delivery.
Costco’s emergency food bucket combines a sense of humor with practical preparedness, appealing to both doomsday preppers and outdoor enthusiasts.