Exploring LSS Retort Pouch Meals from Jordan at IDEX 2025

At IDEX 2025, I sampled LSS’s retort pouch meals from Jordan, highlighting their Halal-certified options like Mandi Rice and Kufta Meat. Each meal offers convenience, nutrition, and flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine, suitable for military and humanitarian needs.

At the recent IDEX expo in Abu Dhabi, I acquired several retort pouches containing main meals from Loyalty Support Services (LSS) of Jordan. These meals are a modern alternative to the traditional military ration pack meal trays. Unlike previous expos where samples were unavailable, I had the chance to choose from different options, including LSS Kufta Meat with Tahini, which is a dish I enjoy, albeit typically in its self-heating version.

The LSS pouch meals, designed to emulate traditional trays, offer a variety of Middle Eastern and international cuisine. These retort meals are Halal-certified, making them appropriate for humanitarian ration packs intended for Muslim populations. As a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, I sought out Iranian food while in Abu Dhabi, revisiting flavors I missed from a favorite restaurant that closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The main meals from LSS weigh around 250 grams and provide 320 to 450 kcal, depending on the type. These meals typically include rice, either plain or Basmati, and feature several flavors like Mandi Rice with Chicken, Freekeh with Chicken, and Kabseh Rice with Chicken, among others. LSS also produces dishes featuring lamb, veal, and fish, as well as vegetarian options like pasta and beans.

For the review, I prepared the Mandi Rice with Chicken by simmering the pouch in water for eight minutes before serving. This method ensured a flavorful taste experience. Mandi is a popular Yemeni dish traditionally cooked using charcoal in clay ovens, where meat is boiled in spices and rice is steamed above.

Additionally, the Kufta Meat with Tahini was heated via boiling and could also be warmed in a metal container over a stove. This meal featured veal kebabs accompanied by boiled potatoes, with a total weight of 200 grams providing 590 kcal.

Currently, my travel plans to the Middle East are set for the end of the year, with potential for an earlier assignment in Jordan. To savor the flavors longer, I plan on saving the Freekeh and Kabseh meals as special treats for later.

The LSS retort pouch meals from Jordan offer a convenient and flavorful option for both military and humanitarian rations. With a wide selection of Halal-certified dishes, these meals cater to various tastes while ensuring nutritional value. Future plans include exploring other military ration options from different countries.

Original Source: www.joint-forces.com