Kosher dry rations: The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has approved an updated technical specification for dry rations for the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has approved the updated technical specification for the daily field ration.

Now, in addition to the regular ones, kosher dry rations can also be purchased for the military. This is intended to improve the nutrition of soldiers in accordance with their religious needs.

This was reported on the MoD Ukraine website on April 30, 2055.

Kosher dry rations meet the requirements of kashrut and are intended for soldiers who practice Judaism.

Overall, the dry rations consist of three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and include:

• Crackers made from first-grade wheat flour
• Biscuits made from first-grade wheat flour or rye flour
• Ready-to-eat first course (borscht with meat or soups with meat, assorted)
• Ready-to-eat second course (cereals with meat or vegetables with meat, assorted)
• Instant coffee
• Tea
• Sugar
• Natural honey
• Fruit jam (assorted)
• Black ground pepper
• Salt
• Disposable plastic spoon
• Paper napkin
• Wet hygiene napkin

Depending on the type of dry ration (regular or kosher), the assortment of first courses includes borscht with beef or soups with pork, chicken, lamb, or beef. Accordingly, the list of second courses includes various cereals with pork, beef, lamb, chicken, etc.

The new technical specifications take into account not only religious standards but also high requirements for product quality and nutritional value. Additionally, ready-to-eat first and second courses must be packed in retort pouches — modern packaging that ensures a long shelf life.

“Thanks to this technology, the dishes retain their taste and nutritional qualities while not requiring additional storage conditions, which is important for soldiers on the front line,” said Colonel Maksym Kaiola, Head of the Central Material Support Development Department of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

Key elements of the specifications:

• …
• The products of the kosher dry rations must comply with kashrut requirements. An important note: all food products included in the kosher dry ration must not contain ingredients or additives prohibited for kosher food.
• Convenience of use and speed of preparation in the battlefield are also taken into account.
• All products meet the safety and quality standards established by the legislation of Ukraine.

The Ministry of Defense continues to work on improving conditions for all soldiers, regardless of their faith, to ensure the highest standards of support both on the front lines and in the rear.

In the near future, the Ministry of Defense’s procurement agency, the “State Rear Operator,” plans to announce a tender for the purchase of an additional batch of dry rations, which will already include kosher rations according to the new technical specifications.

“We are working to ensure that the nutrition in the Armed Forces of Ukraine is not only balanced but also truly people-centered, taking into account the beliefs, religious norms, and personal preferences of each soldier. At the same time, we face a number of challenges: producing inclusive dry rations requires more resources and consideration of the technological aspects of preparing each dish,” said Halyna Litosh, director of the DOT nutrition program.

Jewish community and support for the Ukrainian army: an important step in solidarity

NAnews notes the importance of maintaining religious traditions in the Ukrainian army, where the needs of soldiers who practice Judaism are now taken into account. The introduction of kosher dry rations is not only a step to improve nutrition but also an acknowledgment of the value of each soldier, regardless of their faith. This decision significantly strengthens solidarity between nations and serves as an example of humanity and respect for religious traditions, even in times of war.

Ukraine and Israel: mutual support in difficult times

NAnews: Ukraine also continues to support its Jewish community, actively implementing initiatives aimed at improving the living conditions of all citizens, including adherence to religious norms. This step is another example of how countries can interact to support their citizens and create conditions for their full-fledged lives.