MCO 10110.49 — Nutrition And Menu Standards For Human Performance Optimization

MCO 10110.49 governs military nutrition standards, operational and restricted rations, menu planning, and nutrition education.

Search MCO 10110.49

  • Publication number: MCO 10110.49
  • Title: NUTRITION AND MENU STANDARDS FOR HUMAN PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION
  • Date: 3 Feb 2017
  • Proponent: 10000 General Material
  • Status: New

View MCO 10110.49 on armypubs.army.mil


It establishes military dietary reference intakes and addresses energy, nutrient, water, sodium, and carbohydrate-electrolyte beverage requirements. It also sets Department of Defense menu standards and nutrition education policy for human performance optimization.

Applies to: This regulation establishes requirements for all food service operations whether provided by Governmental sources or through contractor support.

Topics covered

  • Military dietary reference intakes
  • Operational rations
  • Restricted rations
  • Energy requirements
  • Nutrient requirements
  • Carbohydrate-electrolyte beverages
  • Department of Defense menu standards
  • Nutrition education for human performance optimization

Questions and answers

What are the military dietary reference intakes based on?

MDRIs are identical to recommended nutrient intakes cited in the above references except when known differences in the military population requires adjustment of a particular nutrient. (paragraph 2–1)

How often must MCO 10110.49 be reviewed?

At a minimum, this regulation will be reviewed every 5 years to ensure alignment of military and national nutrition standards. (paragraph 1–4)

Who reviews requests for deviations from nutrition and menu standards?

The Surgeons General of the Army, Navy, and Air Force will— (1) Review requests and make appropriate recommendations for deviations from established nutrition and menu standards. (paragraph 1–4)

What nutritional products and diets are discouraged?

Discourage the use of scientifically unproven nutritional products, ergogenic (performance enhancing) aids, fad diets, and/or supplements for which safety and efficacy have not been determined. (paragraph 1–4)

What training must food service personnel receive?

Ensure food service personnel are provided the training necessary for menu planning, product or ingredient evaluation, and food preparation that maximizes the nutritional value of foods. (paragraph 1–4)

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