Evaluation of an Australian combat ration pack as a sole nutrition source during 23 days of military adventurous training in the tropics

Nutr Diet 2003;60:239–47) Objectives: To evaluate Australian combat ration packs (CRP) as sole nutrition source during a 23-day military exercise in the tropics. Design: Evaluation of ration packs based on measurements of nutritional, physiological and psychological criteria. Blood samples were collected for determination of nutritional status (vitamins, cytokines, visceral proteins, and ferritin) and a delayed hypersensitivity skin test was performed before and after the exercise. Measurement of body mass, recording of discarded ration items (packaging and foods), physical fitness testing, collection of saliva (immunoglobulin-A) and urine (cotinine, specific gravity) samples and testing of psychological status (mood and cognition) occurred immediately before and after and at multiple time points. Subjects: Twenty males (aged 19 to 32 years) were recruited from the British 25 Engineer Regiment (Regular Army). Setting: Exercise Pelopor Finn, in the jungle of Tawau Hills National Park, Sabah, Malaysia. Main outcomes: Body mass, nutrient intakes, immune function, micronutrient and visceral protein status, hydration, aerobic capacity, mood states and cognitive ability. Statistical analysis: Linear regression analyses were used to assess associations between variables. Comparison of means was achieved by use of paired t tests and repeated measures analysis of variance was used for tests with serial measurements. Results: Mean weight loss was 5.5%, decrements in physical and mental performance were not observed and good immune and hydration status were maintained. Food consumption appeared to be encouraged by, positive mood states, the novelty of new foods, ability to socialise and take meal breaks, ability to self-select food items and number of serves, adequate sleep, good morale and good hydration status. Conclusion: Although providing sufficient energy and macronutrients, the Australian CRP failed to provide sufficient iron, folic acid, antioxidants and vitamin B6 to prevent a decline in storage of these nutrients.