NATIONAL TRAIL MIX DAY
Observed annually on August 31, National Trail Mix Day honors the mix developed as a healthy snack for long hikes.
#NationalTrailMixDay
Filled with nuts, dried fruit, and grains, trail mix packs a boost of carbohydrates when the body needs it most. The nuts supply good fats as well as sustained energy, too. Since it's lightweight, trail mix travels easily, as well. On long trails or while camping, trail mix keeps without spoiling since most of the ingredients are dried
Two California surfers claim the creation of trail mix. In 1968, they blended peanuts and raisins for an energy snack. However, in the 1958 novel The Dharma Bums written by Jack Kerouac, the two main characters mention trail mix when planning meals for their hiking trip.
Trail Mix Tips
Regardless of who created trail mix, the food is an integral part of camping, hiking, and outdoor life. When preparing for a hike, selecting a favorite combination of ingredients comes down to balancing flavor and nutrition. Some factors to keep in mind:
Portability - Be sure all the components can withstand heat and bouncing around. For example, potato chips and caramel baking bits probably won't survive the heat. However, pretzel rods, M&Ms, and other candy-coated chocolates hold up under stress.
Protein - Choosing the right nuts and seeds adds healthy proteins and fats, too. Consider adding these top protein-producing seeds and nuts to your trail mix: almonds, peanuts, pistachios, hemp, pepito, sunflower, flax, sesame, chia, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts
Salty & Sweet - Not only does the flavor factor increase but the salt, along with drinking plenty of water throughout your hike prevents dehydration. When we sweat, we lose essential electrolytes, and trail mix helps to replenish them. The salt comes from the ingredients already added to the mix. There's no need to add more. And the sweet? Well, that all depends on your tastes. How much additional glucose do your physical needs require?
Spice - Ramp up the flavor profile with some spice. Here are a few combinations to try: Fall blend - cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, ginger Savory blend- garlic powder, dill, lemon pepper Spicy blend - wasabi, mustard powder, lemon pepper, dried cilantro, dried lime zest Spicy sweet blend - paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, a touch of brown sugar
Energy Booster - For a twist, add chocolate-covered roasted coffee beans to your mix. They're especially nice if time is short or it's impossible to make a cup of java while roughing it. You'll get your caffeine and your breakfast while seeking the next fantastic view.
