MIL-PRF-44059 Beef Stew, Packaged In A Flexible Pouch, Shelf StableThis specification covers the performance criteria for production of a finished product consisting of shelf stable beef stew, packaged in a flexible pouch, suitable for use by the Department of Defense as a component of operational rations. This component is consumed by combat personnel under worldwide environmental extremes as part of an operational ration, and is a source of nutritional intake. It is essential that this item be produced in accordance with good commercial practice to attain high standards of appearance, odor, flavor, and texture so that high levels of troop acceptance are achieved.

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MIL-PRF-44059E

1/ Presence of any foreign odors and flavors such as, but not `limited to burnt, scorched, rancid,

sour, or stale shall be cause for rejection of the lot.

2/ Finished product not equal to or better than the approved first article, when applicable, or

other approved model in palatability and overall appearance shall be cause for rejection of the lot.

3/ If the sample average net weight is less than 8.0 ounces, the lot shall be rejected.

4/ If the sample average drained weight of beef dices is less than 2.4 ounces, the lot shall be

rejected.

5/ If the sample average drained weight of vegetables (combined) is less than 1.6 ounces, the lot

shall be rejected.

4.5 Methods of inspection.

4.5.1 Commercial sterility. Testing for commercial sterility shall be in accordance with MIL-

PRF-44073.

4.5.2 Shelf life. Compliance with 3.2.2 shall be determined by incubation for 1 month at 120� F

or 6 months at 100�F or 36 months at 80�F. Contractor shall provide a certificate of

conformance.

4.5.3 Appearance. Appearance acceptability is determined by compliance with 4.4.

4.5.4 Odor and flavor. Odor and flavor acceptability is determined by compliance with 4.4.

4.5.5 Texture. Texture acceptability is determined by compliance with 4.4.

4.5.6 Weight.

4.5.6.1 Net weight. The net weight of the filled and sealed pouches shall be determined by

weighing each sample unit on a suitable scale tared with a representative empty pouch. Results

shall be reported to the nearest 0.1 ounce.

4.5.6.2 Drained weight. The contents of the pouch shall be poured into a flat-bottom

container. A minimum of three times the volume of the pouch of 180�F to 190�F water shall be

added to the container so as to cover the contents. The contents and water shall be gently

agitated so as to liquify rendered fat and to remove the sauce without breaking the beef dices or

vegetables. The contents shall then be poured into a U.S. Standard No. 7 sieve in a manner that

will distribute the product over the sieve without breaking the beef dices or vegetables. The sieve