I wouldn't put too much credence in that book, except as a lesson learned on how NOT to do things.

TR

another gel option
 

I've used these gels and found them to be less sweet, not too bulky, and excellent electrolyte composition.

http://www.cranksports.com/ :lifter

Re: another gel option
 

I'll try those out Ghostrider

I agree PowerGels are really sweet

They do have ones with caffeine added in , so if you are an addict to the daily cup of joe and don't think you will have it on the trail this might be a good option to keep the withdrawl symptoms away

I like them for their size and ease of opening and "eating" while cycling

You can carry a bunch of them in the pouches of a cycling jersey

And when you are done the empty packages roll up nice and small

My understanding is that carbohydrate gels are good for short-term 'refueling' of muscles, but I don't know if I'd want to rely upon them very heavily for long-term nutritional requirements.

Most definitely a short-term, quick boost. But because they are small, easy to digest, and provide some electrolyte replacement they are good options for "snacks". Pretty "cost effecient" in terms of space/weight to benefit ratio.....as an added benefit the packages though small are pretty sturdy. So in an emergency/survival situation they could be utilized for something (rationing water/drinking "cup", used as a patch, etc.) It's all about the multi-tasking!

Exactly

I suggested them only as an addition to real meals as they are small and easy to deal with on the move

I came across something in the commissary today that might work here: foil wrapped fully cooked ground beef in two seasonings -- lightly or Mexican. It's equivalent to what you would get from cooking 1 lb fresh ground beef. I bought one to check it out, and I have until 03/29/2005 to eat it. It weighs 10.6 oz -- which might be more than you want -- but it would pack well (approx 5" X 7" X 1/4 ").

Jack Link, himself, tells us: "My new full coooked ground beef is fully drained and ready to eat, with no messy clean up. I guarantee the same goodness and flavor as ground beef prepared in your own kitchen. Just pour it into your favorite meal and heat. Premium quality, great taste & convenience -- you have my word on it." What more could you ask? :D