The Keys of K-Rations

MN90: Minnesota History in 90 Seconds · May 21, 2026 · 1m · transcript

In 1941, the U.S. Military had an assignment for Ancel Keys, University of Minnesota physiologist: Create a combat ration that packs a caloric punch yet fits in a pocket. Britt Aamodt has the story behind World War II’s K-ration.

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Editor: Britt Aamodt

Producer: Britt Aamodt

Editorial support: Emily Krumberger

Mixing & mastering: Chris Harwood

Image: 90the Infantry Division during World War II receiving K-rations [credit: Public domain via Wikipedia]

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