SBIR-STTR Award

Soldiers engaged in high intensity operations can burn up to 4,500 kcal of energy per day, which cannot be compensated for by current rations Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) and First Strike Rations (FSRs) only provide up to 3,750 kcal/day and 2,900 kcal/day, respectively. This energy debt is further aggravated by the fact that most soldiers field strip their MREs, removing menu items that are undesirable, or that are deemed expendable. Studies have shown that short-term hypocaloric diets can worsen physical fatigue, impair cognitive function, and decrease overall soldier performance in the field. Systems & Materials Research Corporation will team with North Carolina State University to produce SoldierBoost, a shelf-stable, nutrient-dense food supplement for soldiers engaged in high activity field operations. SoldierBoost supports the DLA subsistence supply chains mission by providing an improved field ration / ration supplement that has ultra-high energy content in a compact, lightweight form factor. One serving of SoldierBoost (2 bars) contains 235 kcal more energy, has 0.5 kg (1.1 pounds) less mass, and occupies 96% less volume than a single MRE. SoldierBoost is easy to consume when on-the-go, and comes in individually wrapped portions that are easy to stow and remain sealed until needed.

Soldiers engaged in Sustained Operations can burn up to 6,000 kcal of energy per day, which cannot be compensated for by current rations - Meals, Ready-to-Eat and First Strike Rations only provide up to 3,750 kcal/day and 2,900 kcal/day, respectively. This energy debt is further aggravated by the fact that most soldiers "field strip" their rations, removing menu items that are undesirable, or that are deemed expendable. Studies have shown that short-term hypocaloric diets can worsen physical fatigue, impair cognitive function, and decrease overall soldier performance in the field. Systems & Materials Research Corporation is teaming with North Carolina State University to produce SoldierBoost, a nutrient-dense, shelf-stable food ration designed for soldiers engaged in high activity field operations. Each SoldierBoost bar comes in a standard and caffeine-infused version, providing soldiers with a full allowance of nutrition while on the move and the option for extra stimulation to remain alert during times of fatigue such as night-time operations. SoldierBoost supports the DLA subsistence supply chain's mission by providing an improved field ration that has ultra-high energy content in a compact, lightweight form factor.