First Thoughts on the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve sampled my share of dehydrated and freeze-dried meals. I’ve choked down enough bland, textureless “survival food” to last a lifetime. So, when the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack landed on my doorstep, I approached it with cautious optimism. Could this offering from Wise Foods actually deliver a palatable, even enjoyable, meal in the wilderness?
My adventures often take me far from civilization, whether it’s multi-day backpacking trips in the Sierras, extended hunting expeditions in the Montana backcountry, or setting up remote basecamps for wildlife photography. The need for lightweight, shelf-stable, and genuinely satisfying food is paramount. I was looking for something that offered more than just sustenance. I was after a meal that could boost morale and provide a taste of home when I’m miles away from it.
The Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack immediately stood out from the competition due to its promise of a classic comfort food dish. Many dehydrated meals lean heavily on chili, pasta, or rice-based recipes. The idea of a chicken pot pie, with its savory filling and buttery biscuit component, was genuinely appealing. I considered other brands like Mountain House and Backpacker’s Pantry, but ultimately chose Wise Foods for the nostalgic draw of pot pie and the relatively affordable price point of $54.49 for six meals.
Unboxing the kit revealed six individual pouches, each clearly labeled and vacuum-sealed. The packaging felt robust, designed to withstand the rigors of the trail. My initial impression was one of slight surprise. The pouches were smaller than I anticipated. However, the promise of two servings per pack mitigated this concern. Overall, I was cautiously optimistic – ready to see if Wise Foods could deliver on its promise of a comforting and convenient backcountry meal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
My first encounter with the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack occurred during a three-day solo backpacking trip in the Lost Coast region of California. The rugged terrain and unpredictable weather of the Lost Coast demanded gear that could perform. Food, of course, was no exception. After a long day of hiking, navigating tide pools, and battling gusty winds, I was eager for a warm and satisfying meal.
Preparing the chicken pot pie was straightforward. I simply added boiling water to the pouch, stirred thoroughly, and waited the recommended time (as indicated on the packaging). The aroma that wafted up as the meal rehydrated was surprisingly pleasant – a definite improvement over the chemical scent I’ve experienced with other brands. The taste was equally impressive. The herb-roasted chicken flavor came through nicely. The vegetables were tender, and the buttery biscuit component added a welcome textural element.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of incorporating the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack into my regular rotation of outdoor meals, I can confidently speak to its reliability. The packaging has proven to be exceptionally durable. I’ve tossed pouches into my pack without fear of punctures or leaks. I’ve stored them in my vehicle without issue, tolerating the heat.
The meals themselves consistently rehydrate well. I haven’t encountered any instances of unevenly cooked or dehydrated ingredients. Maintenance is a non-issue; simply dispose of the empty pouch responsibly. Compared to some of the other dehydrated meals I’ve tried, the Wise Foods chicken pot pie is a clear winner in terms of flavor, texture, and overall satisfaction. It outperformed my expectations, especially considering the inherent limitations of freeze-dried food.
Breaking Down the Features of Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack
Specifications
The Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack features a simple yet effective design focused on convenience and portability. The kit includes six individual pouches of chicken pot pie, each containing two servings. The meal consists of herb-roasted chicken, a medley of vegetables, and buttery biscuits. Each pouch requires the addition of hot water for rehydration.
The focus on lightweight packaging and long shelf life makes this kit ideal for backpacking, camping, and emergency preparedness. While the exact weight per serving isn’t specified on the Wise Foods website, the overall weight of the kit suggests each serving is around 5-6 ounces. This lightweight design ensures minimal impact on your pack weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack performs admirably in its intended role. It provides a quick, easy, and relatively tasty meal option for outdoor enthusiasts. The chicken pot pie is surprisingly flavorful, with a noticeable herb-roasted chicken taste that distinguishes it from bland alternatives. The vegetables retain a decent texture upon rehydration. The biscuit component adds a welcome touch of homestyle comfort.
However, it’s important to manage expectations. This is still dehydrated food, and it won’t rival a freshly made chicken pot pie. The sodium content is also relatively high, a common characteristic of preserved foods. Overall, the functionality is excellent for its intended purpose as a lightweight and shelf-stable meal solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack prioritizes simplicity and ease of use. The pouches are compact and easily packable. The instructions for rehydration are clear and concise. The pouches are made from a durable material that resists punctures and leaks.
The user experience is straightforward. No special equipment is required beyond a source of hot water and a utensil for stirring. The wide opening of the pouch makes it easy to eat directly from the bag, minimizing cleanup. The design is utilitarian but effective.
Durability & Maintenance
The shelf life of the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack is a major selling point. Properly stored, these meals can last for several years. This makes them an excellent option for emergency preparedness kits and long-term food storage. The durable packaging ensures that the meals remain protected from the elements.
Maintenance is virtually nonexistent. Simply dispose of the empty pouch after use. No special cleaning or storage requirements are necessary. The long shelf life and minimal maintenance make this a highly practical choice for a variety of situations.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack is primarily designed as a self-contained meal solution. There are no specific accessories that come with the kit beyond the individual pouches. Customization options are limited, as the meal is pre-packaged.
However, you can easily supplement the meal with your own additions. Carry extra spices to increase flavor. Add hot sauce to kick up the heat. The simplicity of the kit encourages resourceful adaptation to individual taste and dietary needs.
Pros and Cons of Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack
Pros
- Excellent flavor for a dehydrated meal; the herb-roasted chicken flavor is noticeable and enjoyable.
- Convenient and easy to prepare; simply add hot water and stir.
- Long shelf life makes it ideal for emergency preparedness.
- Durable and lightweight packaging for easy transport.
- Provides a comforting and familiar meal option in the backcountry.
Cons
- Sodium content is relatively high.
- The portion size (two servings per pouch) might not be sufficient for larger appetites or strenuous activities.
Who Should Buy Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack?
The Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack is perfect for backpackers, campers, hikers, and anyone needing lightweight, shelf-stable meals for outdoor adventures or emergency situations. It’s also a great option for individuals seeking a comforting and familiar meal while traveling or in situations where cooking facilities are limited.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals with strict dietary restrictions, such as low-sodium diets. Also, those seeking gourmet culinary experiences in the wilderness should likely look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory to complete this meal is a portable camp stove. This would allow the user to boil water for rehydration anywhere.
Conclusion on Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack
The Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack exceeded my initial expectations. While it’s not a gourmet meal, it delivers a surprisingly flavorful and satisfying experience in a convenient and lightweight package. The long shelf life and ease of preparation make it a practical choice for outdoor adventures and emergency preparedness.
The price of $54.49 for six meals is justified, especially considering the quality and convenience offered. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values a tasty and reliable meal option in the backcountry.
I would definitely recommend the Wise Foods Outdoor Food Kit Chicken Pot Pie 6 Pack to fellow outdoor enthusiasts. If you are looking for a comforting and convenient meal solution, give it a try! You might be pleasantly surprised.