Technical note | Quality Assurance of Current Combat Ration Pack Components: 12 Months Progress Report on 2010/11 Ration Packing Program

Abstract

 DSTO provides science and technology support to DMO for the through-life management of combat ration pack components. This report details the performance of 24 components from the 2010/11 ration packing program following 12 months storage under controlled conditions. The results provide guidance as to the anticipated shelf life of each component and the ability of products to meet warranty requirements. The report concludes that 5 components are expected to meet the warranty requirements, 11 are at risk of failure and 8 have either already failed or are expected to fail

Executive Summary

The Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) provides science and technology (S&T) support to the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) for the through-life management of combat ration pack (CRP) components.

DSTO's support includes provision of quality assurance (QA) testing of current CRP components. This report details the performance of 24 components from the 2010/11 ration packing program following 12 months storage under controlled conditions.

The results relate to changes over time of physical, visual and sensory measures, providing guidance as to the anticipated shelf life of each component and the ability of products to meet the warranty requirement that components remain suitable for use following up to 24 months storage at 30 °C.

The following components are expected to meet the warranty requirements: Chilli Con Carne, Plum Fruit Spread, Strawberry Fruit Spread, Lemon/Lime Sports Powder and Peppermint Candy.

Those at risk of not achieving warranty are: Tuna in Springwater, Beef Teriyaki, Green Peas, Cream of Chicken Soup, Marmalade, Orange Sports Powder, Grape Sports Powder, Banana Berry Candy, Musk Candy, Tomato Ketchup and Sweet Chilli Sauce.

Components that have either failed or are likely to fail to achieve warranty are: Braised Beef & Gravy, Chicken Curry, Curried Sausages & Vegetables, Sweet Corn, Carrots, Savoury Soup, Tomato Soup and Chocolate Candy.

The report makes recommendations to improve initial acceptability and to reduce the likelihood of failure during storage through reformulation, repackaging or replacement of current products. The recommendations are provided in more detail in the body of the report.