Field Nutrition for the Military Athlete

[john smith]

For those of you in the military, what sorts of foods do you like to take to the field with you? I am always searching for alternatives to the MRE as its no secret that they arent the most nutritious option. The problem is finding healthy foods that stay fresh and are easily portable. From my own experience I tend to rely on the following:

Tuna/Salmon packets
Jerky (Beef, Turkey, Deer)
Raw nuts
Meal replacement bars with low sugar content

Any other ideas out there?

[Donald Lee]

What's wrong with sugar when you're out in the field?

Personally, I think most MREs are delicious...at least when you're out in the field.

[Pat McElhone]

You can not go wrong with just the entree. They are the source of most of the protein. Eat 2-3 entrees, throw the other stuff out.

[Joe Davidoski]

Luckily, some of the MREs are changing - i.e. Tuna.
However, most are chock full of sugary snacks (the result of polling the military of what they want in a meal, not what they need).
I say it depends on your output and what the "field" means to you. But Whole Foods has almond butter in single packs that is awesome and calorie dense. Its less sugar than traditional peanut butter. You can supplement the jerky with dried fruits (esp the ones without sugar added) to get the protein/carbs balance.
If you are doing high output work (humps, etc) vice driving around in a vic, I'd keep eating the entrees but chuck out the deserts. Better, trade the deserts to that tubby next to you for another entree.