25 of the Best Foods for Food Donations

Hint: Go with non-perishable foods high in protein and whole grains

By
Robin Shreeves
Robin Shreeves
Writer
  • Cairn University
  • Rowan University
  • Wine School of Philadelphia
Robin Shreeves is a freelance writer who focuses on sustainability, wine, travel, food, parenting, and spirituality.
Learn about our editorial process
Updated September 7, 2024
Food drives are a great way to make a difference, but there are ways to make sure what you donate gets utilized. For starters, check dates and look for those pop-top cans. (Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

There are a lot of food banks that pop up during the holidays. And, while many may prefer cash donations, sometimes giving food is all you can do. So, when the Scouts come knocking at your door collecting food donations, or you're asked to bring a non-perishable item as your entrance cost to a school holiday concert, it's good to know what's best to give.

NPR did a piece on the types of pantry staples that best help those relying on food banks to build healthy meals. Food banks report that food donations should focus “on whole, unprocessed or minimally processed foods." Instead of donating foods high in salt, sugar, and highly processed grains, give foods high in protein, healthy fats, and whole grains.

The Best Non-Perishable Foods To Donate

Below are 25 of the best healthy food donations you can give during the holidays and year-round.

  1. canned beans
  2. dry beans
  3. peanut butter, or other nut butters
  4. rolled oats
  5. canned fruit in juice (not in light or heavy syrup)
  6. canned vegetables (with no or low-sodium)
  7. low-sodium soups
  8. canned tuna in water
  9. canned chicken
  10. brown rice
  11. quinoa
  12. nuts (unsalted)
  13. seeds (unsalted)
  14. shelf stable milk and milk substitutes
  15. whole grain pasta
  16. low-sodium pasta sauce
  17. popcorn kernels (not microwave popcorn)
  18. canned stews
  19. unsweetened apple sauce
  20. whole grain and low-sugar cold cereals
  21. olive or canola oil
  22. canned tomatoes
  23. dried fruits (no sugar added)
  24. honey
  25. chicken, beef, and vegetable broths and stock.

Armed with many of these foods, and perhaps a cookbook like Good and Cheap: Eating Healthy on $4 a Day—developed to show SNAP recipients how to cook with inexpensive staples—those who rely on food banks can create healthy, filling meals.

Additional tips:

  • Canned goods with pop-top lids are better than those requiring a can opener
  • Avoid foods packaged in glass
  • Don't donate foods that are past the expiration date