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The containers -- called the tri-wall air delivery system -- have a static line that tightens and flips the containers once they clear of the aircraft. Once open, the pre-packaged food rations disburse and spread over the drop zone.

"We determined our drop zones, taking into account where the people who needed the aid are located, potential threats in the area, and existing wind conditions to maximize accuracy to the best of our ability," Allardice said. "Our goal was to get the aid to the right people, without putting them at undue risk."

Each of the 2,200-calorie ready-to-eat food rations contains two main vegetarian meals based heavily on lentils, beans and/or rice. It also has complementary items such as bread, a fruit bar, a fortified biscuit, peanut butter and spices.

"One meal provides enough nutrition for an entire day for one person, but needs to be supplemented with liquids," said Capt. Dana Whelan, a registered dietician with Ramstein's 86th Medical Group. "The meals are a good source of protein, fortified with vitamins and minerals and are appropriate for someone in a poor state of nutrition."