Ration Cracker Container

Manufacturer / MakerCreated by National Biscuit Co.

Date1955

Mediumtin

Dimensions13 × 8 1/2 × 5 1/2 in. (33 × 21.6 × 14 cm)

ClassificationsVessels & Containers

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Phyllis Briscoe

Object numberPC1992.91.2

DescriptionThis survival ration cracker container is a lithographed tin, originating from the Cold War era (ca. 1945-1991). The tin itself encompasses a rectangular form and rounded edges. The front panel reads "Survival / Ration" in large lettering, followed by "Crackers". Below this are some instructions to ensure the preservation of the food inside, including storage instructions and opening instructions. Moving further down, a paragraph sits underneath the instructions, providing additional context, stating that the serving for an adult would be sixty-six crackers, and that this tin includes fifteen packets of twenty-six crackers, while also emphasizing its protected, hermetic seal. The bottom portion of the front surface also includes the "Recommended Directions for Use", recommending that the user consume eighteen crackers for breakfast and lunch, and thirty for dinner, for adequate nutrition. The backside of the tin reads the same large title and features dietary information, including the percentage by weight of protein, fat, available carbohydrates, and sodium. The calorie content and vitamin B1 information are listed, along with a list of ingredients, towards the bottom portion. The name of the tin's manufacturer, the "National Biscuit Company," is written at the bottom.

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