In the beginning, the Swiss Family Robinson go back to their ship to fill up with supplies, including hens and cockerels that can provide both eggs and cows and goats that can provide milk and meat. They, of course, prove invaluable, but they also find food on the island and without too much effort.

Soon after they arrive they kill a lobster that attacks Jack and cook it. They also collect some oysters and mussels that Fritz finds on the beach. They then use the guns they took off the ship to shoot game, including an animal that looks like a pig called an agouti.

Later they find sugar cane (which they have to suck on), coconuts, honey, potatoes, and spices—all of which to them are luxury goods.

Other foods they find on the island include strawberries, lemons, pistachio nuts, pomegranates, figs, mulberries, and a South American delicacy called palm-cabbage. As the father says they can eat most food that is edible to monkeys and birds. Luckily, they tame a monkey that can lead them to all sorts of new food supplies.

They are clever enough to use the seeds from their food to grow new supplies that can last all year round.