RBC’s CookPak^® self-heating packaging technology for food is unlike any other product on the market. The heater is integrated into a separate, sealed compartment of a prepared food package. Removing a peelable seal on the outside of the package exposes the heater material to air. The heater material reacts with oxygen in the air to generate heat and a solid oxide material. The food in its own package compartment is safely heated in six to eight minutes.

The RBC self-heating packaging technology can be used with a variety of foods (soups, chilis, pastas and hot beverages) and package types (cans, foil or plastic trays, and even flexible pouches). The heater is composed entirely of food-safe, environmentally-friendly materials.

Unlike the RBC food heater, all other commercial self-heating package technologies use water rather than air to produce the heat generating reaction. Generally the water is also included in the package so that the whole system is self-contained, adding substantial weight and bulk, and requiring the user to carry out a sequence of steps to mix the water and heater material.

RBC's special heater composition and its reaction with the surrounding air produce the lightest possible weight and size for a compact, easy to carry hot meal.

RBC began development work on CookPak^® self-heating technology in 2006 as an Air-Activated Ration Heater (AARH) for use with US Army, Meal-Ready-to-Eat (MRE) rations. RBC is currently working to scale up its production of the AARH for use by the Army.

The AARH self-heating packages are used to heat MRE entrées for soldiers in the field and for disaster and emergency meals. This same technology is now being developed for use in consumer food products to provide on-the-go, hot snacks, beverages, and meals.