AnsomMag.com |

Marshmallows are not officially a member of any food group or “pyramid” but don’t tell that to the camper or hiker, to whom the basic marshmallow is the sustenance of life.

But for the sportsman on the go, staying hydrated is the most important aspect of maintaining strength and energy in the field, and water consumed directly or used for cooking and cleaning must also be safe for consumption.

On the nutrition side of the menu, campers and hikers may opt for either military-style meals ready to eat (MREs), freeze-dried prepared foods that require reconstitution via hot water, or cooked food that requires portable stoves, an external heat source, pots, pans and cooking and eating utensils.

According to John Ottaviano of Rothco, the MRE is king for the traveling sportsman.

“The MRE is a fully cooked meal that does not need water, heat or preparation. They are also available in many varieties,” he said.

Ottaviano also cites firestarters, especially magnesium and the Aurora brand as another big seller, since they can be used for cooking and for generating fires for warmth and protection. He also noted that the p38 can opener is another outdoor sports staple.

He also advises that retailers have on hand plenty of hydration products and water and food storage items.

“Campers have to store food and water, so collapsible water carriers, hydration systems, water purification tablets. Solid fuel tablets, canteens, mess kits and even small stoves should be part of a retailer’s camping products display to help customers ensure that they have all of their needs met,” Ottaviano said.

The Stansport Company specializes in camping supplies for nutrition and hydration. Their Thermo Bottles are available in 25oz. and 16oz.capacities, feature double-wall stainless steel insulated construction and keep drinks cold or hot for up to 24 hours.

The company also markets a variety of portable stoves, barbecue grills, propane heaters and cookware.

The ability to heat and purify water afield is a necessary requirement for utilizing freeze-dried foods in the wilderness. The chief advantages of freeze-dried foods are their variety, light carrying weight and general availability.

THE MRE WILL SET YOU FREE

Most MREs are made by government suppliers for military use. Where possible, these suppliers then create what they can for the commercial market. Ottaviano claims that currently, MREs are readily available for the army/navy retail market.