Ashley Gilbertson, a journalist with The New York Times recently discussed interesting things about the combat rations that are distributed to soldiers stationed in Afghanistan from around the world. Some of the highlights include:

• At one point one serving of French combat rations could be bartered for five servings of American rations.
• Combat rations are designed to remind soldiers of home. This includes sampling eating fads in the home country. British troops were able to enjoy lamb curry as part of their rations when the dish became popular.
• U.S. troops are given Assorted Charms. The soldiers believe it is bad luck to eat them.
• Peanut M&M’s are the ultimate treat and can be traded for almost anything.

Read more about the ingredients in “Ranger Pudding” (it involves Tootsie Rolls), and “Combat Espresso” (it’s not the dish that’s interesting. Just the container.) by clicking here.

Source: The New York Times

Via: Jay Lake ; The Society Pages