Backpacker's Pantry
In 1951, a disastrous trip, marked by the weight of tin cans, a long mountain hike, and the growing discouragement of a group of young scouts, challenged conventional ideas about outdoor eating.
Troop leader Anne Benedict, more inspired than discouraged, returned home motivated to create a lighter, more convenient, and “just-add-water” solution for adventurers. She succeeded in her mission, and Dri-Lite Foods became the first adventure food brand on the market.
When Ronald Smith purchased Dri-Lite Foods in 1971, he immediately focused on finding appropriate food preservation packaging and creating a new image, logo, and name to market dehydrated foods. His wife, Jan, and the former owner of Dri-Lite Foods, Anne, dove into recipe development. After much trial and error, they created recipes that were both convenient and delicious. Delicious and diverse meals have always been, and will continue to be, a top priority for Backpacker's Pantry.
