EPA & trekking food

Original army surplus

For outdoor enthusiasts embarking on demanding adventures in the wilderness, proper nutrition is crucial. This is where EPA (Einmannpackungen) come into play – specially developed trekking rations tailored to the needs of extreme conditions.

High durability and robustness

EPA rations are designed for long shelf life. Thanks to advanced preservation methods such as freeze-drying, for example, nutrients and flavor are retained while weight and volume are minimized. This allows EPA food to withstand harsh conditions and remain stable even under strong temperature fluctuations or high humidity.

When it comes to color selection, the belt should match the rest of your clothing. Our range includes belts in brown or solid colors as well as belts with camouflage patterns. In addition to standard colors such as plain black, green, gray and olive, our selection also features many other colors, allowing you to choose according to your personal tastes and preferences. Special women’s models in pink with camouflage patterns round off the extensive range.

Each portion of EPA food provides you with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. This is crucial for supplying you with energy and supporting your body during long hikes, mountaineering or other outdoor activities.

Easy preparation

Preparing EPA food is simple and usually only requires the addition of water. Some varieties, such as our canned bread, can even be eaten without adding water, which can be an advantage in situations where water is scarce.

Wide variety of flavors

The variety of EPA flavors and meals offered at ASMC – from breakfast options such as chocolate muesli to hearty main courses and desserts – ensures that your diet on longer tours doesn’t become monotonous.

Vegetarian, lactose-free and gluten-free EPA food

Our range also covers special dietary needs. We offer you numerous vegetarian, lactose-free and gluten-free alternatives as well.

Buying EPA: what you should bear in mind

helinox

Short trekking tours (1–2 days): For short hikes, light, quickly prepared EPA options such as freeze‑dried fruit, nut mixes or high‑energy snacks like energy bars are ideal. These provide you with quick energy and are easy to carry.

SteriPEN

Longer expeditions: For longer expeditions, it is advisable to choose a variety of EPA foods that provide different nutrients and flavors to prevent palate fatigue. Combinations of main meals, snacks and high-energy foods such as pumpernickel or canned meat dishes can be particularly useful here.

Storage and weight of EPA trekking food

On your next outdoor tour, you should pay attention to lightweight packaging and long shelf life for your EPA rations. Choose freeze-dried meals if you value low weight and saving space. For tours where you depend on longer-term storage, products such as canned bread or long-life snacks are ideal. This selection ensures a reliable, nutrient-rich diet that covers your energy needs without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.

Expert tip: What can be used as a pot substitute for cooking EPA trekking meals?

If you’re out in nature and don’t have any pots available to prepare your EPA trekking food, you can use large leaves as an alternative, for example from banana plants. Simply wrap your food in the leaves. They are excellent as a cooking wrapper. Sometimes it’s better to use several layers so that your food doesn’t burn. Depending on the type of leaves, you can heat or cook the food directly in the fire or on glowing coals. But remember to find out before your trip or tour which plants with large leaves grow in your destination area and which of them are non-toxic.