Tabbouleh salad

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For weeks, the skippers of the Vendée Globe have been preparing their provisions, and we thank them for placing their trust in us. Want to take a behind-the-scenes look at how provisioning is done? Let’s dive in!
Freeze-Dried Meals vs. Sterilized Meals
About ten years ago, weight constraints on boats made freeze-dried meals the go-to choice for provisioning. Today, most sailors opt for a mix of freeze-dried and sterilized meals, as both options have evolved significantly in quality over the years.
The difference between the two is straightforward:
The final texture of both is comparable to a home-cooked meal. Taste, texture, and nutrients are well-preserved in both options. However, freeze-dried meals have the added benefits of being lighter and having a longer shelf life.
How Many Calories Does a Skipper Need?
Nutrition for the Vendée Globe is meticulously planned, with most skippers working alongside nutritionists to fine-tune their diets. Depending on the conditions, daily caloric needs vary significantly:
In warm areas, meals like tabbouleh are favored since they can be eaten cold, while large portions providing 800 to 1,000 kcal are preferred in colder regions to replenish energy and keep the body fueled.
How Do Skippers Manage 3 Months of Food Onboard?
Many skippers organize their food into daily portions, like Boris Herrmann, who already knows what he’ll eat on Christmas Day! However, each skipper has their own method. Some prefer more flexibility, choosing their meals based on their cravings as they go.
Either way, it represents a significant amount of supplies, as shown in Conrad Colman’s impressive provisioning setup!
Their Secrets to Staying Positive!
The nutritional landscape for sailors has changed dramatically in recent years. To avoid monotony and keep spirits high, variety and quality are key. Many of our recipes are inspired by homemade meals, such as those from Real, where Norwegian chefs prepare dishes before freeze-drying, or our range of gourmet ready-made meals crafted by French artisans like Bocaux et Petits Plats, Le Bon Bag, or La Cuisine Plaisir. For this edition of the Vendée Globe, skippers can also enjoy the new outdoor meal range from Charal.
To enhance flavors, nothing beats a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of parmesan, or a dollop of canned salted butter. And yes, the Lyophilise & Co team is proudly Breton, offering products that require no preparation, store well at room temperature, and are made in France! These small indulgences can make a big difference in morale.
Some sailors bring meals and treats prepared by loved ones or fruits and vegetables dehydrated from their own gardens. These personal touches provide an uplifting energy boost when needed.
This year, sterilized dessert recipes have become part of the adventure, including Apple Tarte Tatin and Dark Chocolate Walnut Brownie!
For moments when spirits are low, sailors can reach for chocolate, energy bars, dried fruits, jerky, or even candy. Just for a moment, they put nutrition aside and focus on what truly brings joy—a sweet boost to morale!
A Word About Lyophilise & Co 🌶
Based in Lorient, Lyophilise & Co is the go-to reference for freeze-dried meals and high-quality outdoor equipment. Whether you’re a hiker, skipper, trail runner, bushcraft enthusiast, or bivouac lover, we offer a wide range of technical products tailored to all your adventures. With over 2,000 products available, we’re here to support your expeditions, both in France and internationally.
If you have any questions, our experts are available and happy to assist you:
☎ +33 2 97 87 23 73
✉ team[at]lyophilise.com
We also have a showroom open from Monday to Friday:
📍 6 bis rue du Sous-Marin Vénus, 56100 Lorient
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