Having snacks on hand in the backcountry is key for keeping energy high and the experience smooth (with or without kids!). But with limited possibilities, finding a fix that is quick and easy and doesn’t detour your nutritional goals can be challenging.
While hiking, I usually turn to fruit, nuts and seeds, but, truth be told, I tire of them quickly and my sweet tooth and I are often left wanting. If on a trail run (or during a road race), I turn to a variety of goos, blocks and gels to keep me going, but my struggle here is usually texture and the need for extra water to wash it down.
To test a new snack opportunity, I took a sampling of three oatmeal/fruit squeezable pouches called Munk Packs out on the trail with me earlier this month.
Each 4.2 oz pouch, with flavors including Apple Quinoa Cinnamon, Raspberry Coconut and Blueberry Acai Flax, is a 80-100 calorie blend of whole grain rolled oats, flax seed and fruits. Instead of being packed with sugar like so many energy and granola bars, these light and portable snacks are packed with fiber, which was a plus for me right off the bat. When I’m on the trail, I want real nutrients not a sugar high that’s going to having me crashing before the end of the day.
The packs are filling and the texture is much better than the energy gels I’ve choked down in the past. Of course, it’s always important to hydrate on the trail, but you don’t need water to get these down, which is nice if you’re snacking while on the move.
In addition to being sans artificial sweeteners, syrups or other fillers, the packs are dairy and gluten free, which is a plus for those with dietary concerns. Each Munk Pack is also kosher, vegan and GMO-free. For being so au natural, they packed a lot of natural flavor that made eating them a treat rather than a chore and provided a great boost of energy.
No need to refrigerate these, so you can shove a few into the outside pockets of your pack.
If you are in the northeast of the United States you can find them at Whole Foods and several other mom-and-pop grocers across the Northeast. Alternately, you can can find a retailer by placing your zip code into the finder here. Later this year they should be available nationwide. In the meantime you can order online at munkpack.com or at Amazon.com. A six-pack goes for $15.
Bottom Line:
If you’re looking for a tasty snack on the trail that’s easy to eat and clean-up, but won’t derail your nutritional goals, check out Munk Pack Oatmeal Fruit Squeezes.
Tech Specs:
Date available: Now
MSRP: $15/6
Weight: 4.02 oz
Flavors: Apple Quinoa Cinnamon, Blueberry Acai Flax, Raspberry Coconut
Munk Pack Oatmeal Fruit Squeezes
$14.99 / 6 pack
Pros
- Small, portable
- No added sugar
- Taste, texture
Cons
- Not available in stores outside NY (yet)
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