Field Acceptability and Consumption of CR1M and Potential New Food Items during the Hot Weather Ration Trial
Scientific Publication
- Report Number:
- DSTO-TN-1041
- Authors:
- Carins, J.E.; Kullen, C.J.
- Issue Date:
- 2011-11
- AR Number:
- AR-015-145
- Classification:
- Unclassified
- Report Type:
- Technical Note
- Division:
- Human Protection and Performance Division (HPPD)
- Release Authority:
- Chief, Human Protection and Performance Division
- Task Sponsor:
- DMO
- Task Number:
- 07/078
- File Number:
- 2011/1174700
- Pages:
- 23
- References:
- 9
- Terms:
- Food; Nutrition; Diet; Combat rations
- URI:
- http://hdl.handle.net/1947/10166
Abstract
The Combat Ration One Man (CR1M) is the combat ration pack (CRP) used predominately by the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Soldiers frequently discard a large number of items within this pack for various reasons. To enable continuous improvement of CRP, it is important that both acceptability and consumption of current and potential new items be regularly reviewed. This report details an analysis of the data collected during the trial of a prototype Hot Weather Ration (HWR). Poor acceptability and consumption rates were found for some products, whilst others were highly acceptable and well consumed. Recommendations are made for improvement or replacement of several items, which can be used to inform future CR1M versions.
Executive Summary
The Combat Ration Pack (CRP) used predominately by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is the Combat Ration One Man (CR1M). Soldiers often do not consume the ration packs in their entirety, discarding many items. Acceptability is believed to be a determinant of whether or not items will be consumed. Therefore, there is a need to regularly review the acceptability of ration items. There are other factors that influence consumption and indeed some determinants are not well understood. Therefore, it is also important to monitor actual consumption of ration pack items. DSTO has reviewed the data collected during the trial of a prototype Hot Weather Ration (HWR) to determine the level of consumption and field acceptability of ration pack items used during the trial. The trial was a well designed study which closely monitored actual consumption via a bar-coding technique. Acceptability and reasons for discards were monitored using questionnaires. Recommendations are made for improvements to the main meals to increase variety and palatability. Some snacks and confectionery are acceptable and consumed well, while others need removal/replacement or reformulation. Suggestions are made for inclusions of new products. Improvements to drinks are recommended through the introduction of pouch packaging and new flavours. This analysis will inform decisions on which ration pack items should be considered for replacement. It may also indicate which items should be considered for introduction into the CR1M.