As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding trips and writing about the outdoors, I’ve been asked some… interesting questions. Recently, a hiker on a multi-day backpacking trip in Joshua Tree National Park asked me, completely seriously, if the wild one chocolate wrappers he’d been diligently collecting could be useful in a survival situation. It sparked a fascinating conversation, and ultimately, this article. The question isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds – when you’re facing a genuine emergency, you start looking at everything differently. But let’s dive deep: are those seemingly insignificant wrappers, and more broadly, is chocolate itself, a viable component of a survival plan? We’ll explore the nutritional value, potential uses, and the realities of relying on “desert island candy” when things go wrong in the backcountry.
Let’s start with the obvious: chocolate tastes good. That’s a significant psychological benefit in a stressful survival scenario. But beyond that, what does chocolate actually offer? The nutritional profile varies wildly depending on the type. Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) is the most beneficial. Here’s a general breakdown (per 100g serving – roughly a standard chocolate bar):
These calories are dense, meaning you get a lot of energy for a relatively small weight. This is crucial in a survival situation where conserving energy is paramount. The fat content also provides sustained energy, unlike the quick spike and crash of simple sugars. However, it’s important to remember that chocolate isn’t a complete food. It lacks essential vitamins and fiber. As the National Park Service emphasizes, proper planning and packing a well-rounded emergency kit are always the first line of defense.
So, is chocolate a good survival food? The answer is… complicated. Here’s a balanced look:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High calorie density | Lacks essential vitamins and fiber |
| Provides sustained energy (especially dark chocolate) | Can melt easily in warm temperatures |
| Psychological boost – morale is critical | High sugar content can lead to dehydration |
| Contains some essential minerals | May cause digestive issues for some |
The key takeaway is that chocolate should be considered a supplement to a proper survival kit, not a replacement for it. Think of it as a morale booster and a quick energy source, but don’t rely on it to sustain you for days.
Now, let’s address the original question about those wild one chocolate wrappers. While not a nutritional source, they can be surprisingly useful. The metallicized plastic (often Mylar) offers several potential applications:
However, it’s crucial to remember that these are last-resort options. As Leave No Trace principles dictate, you should always pack out everything you pack in. Collecting wrappers with the intention of using them in a survival situation is a gray area, but if you do, be prepared to pack them out once you’re safe. Don’t leave them scattered in the wilderness.
This discussion about wrappers highlights a broader point: the importance of thoughtful packaging. Consider the packaging of all your food items. Are there any components that could be repurposed? Could you consolidate packaging to reduce waste? More importantly, focus on building a robust emergency kit. This should include:
As REI Expert Advice consistently recommends, tailor your kit to the specific environment and duration of your trip. Don’t skimp on quality – your life may depend on it.
One of the biggest dangers of relying on chocolate in a survival situation is dehydration. The sugar content draws water from your body, exacerbating the effects of thirst. This is particularly problematic in arid environments like the desert, where water is already scarce. If you’re consuming chocolate, you must prioritize finding a water source and staying hydrated. Knowing how to locate and purify water is a fundamental survival skill. Consider taking a wilderness first aid course that covers water procurement techniques.
Let’s say you’re facing a prolonged survival situation – days or even weeks. In this scenario, the limitations of chocolate become even more apparent. You’ll need a sustainable source of calories, protein, and essential nutrients. This might involve foraging for edible plants (with extreme caution and proper identification – misidentification can be fatal), trapping small animals, or fishing. These skills require training and practice. Don’t attempt them without proper knowledge. The USDA Forest Service offers resources on responsible foraging and wildlife management.
So, back to our original question about wild one chocolate wrappers and whether chocolate is a viable survival food. The wrappers can offer limited utility in a pinch, but they are far from a game-changer. Chocolate itself can provide a temporary energy boost and a psychological lift, but it’s not a substitute for proper planning, a well-stocked emergency kit, and essential survival skills. Think of it as a small bonus, a little bit of comfort in a difficult situation. But always prioritize preparedness and responsible outdoor practices. And remember, the best way to survive a wilderness emergency is to prevent one from happening in the first place. Check out my article on Backcountry Trip Planning: A Comprehensive Checklist for more detailed guidance.
Ultimately, while the idea of relying on desert island candy is appealing, it’s a dangerous illusion. Focus on being prepared, staying informed, and respecting the power of the wilderness.