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A polymeric tray will replace the steel traycan used in the unit group ration-heat and serve (UGR-H&S) and the unitized tray pack (T-Ration). The tray provides soldiers and marines in a tactical environment with hot food similar to prepared entrees available in the grocery store-though not frozen. It serves as an intermediate step between meals, ready to eat (MRE's), and meals prepared from fresh ingredients.
The polymeric tray resembles a large plastic baking pan and is immersed in simmering water for 45 minutes to heat the food within the tray. Any sharp knife will puncture and slice through the lid, which is made of a flexible, high-strength, multilayer material similar to that used in MRE pouches. This eliminates the on-the-job injuries caused by the sharp edges of the steel traycans and lids after opening with a can opener.
The military polymeric tray is based on a commercial model produced by Rexam Containers in Union, Missouri. It is made of polypropylene with an ethylenevinyl alcohol barrier layer. A fiberboard sleeve provides puncture protection and compressive strength to the filled and...