The Wonderful World of GORP – A Guide to “Good Old Raisins & Peanuts”
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The Wonderful World of GORP – A Guide to “Good Old Raisins & Peanuts”

We’re thrilled to reveal our top pick for savvy snacking in the New Year. When it comes to this blissful bite, you won’t find a hiker or avid outdoors lover that isn’t familiar with it. 

And there’s 3 big reasons why!

Loved around the world, the origins of this word are a bit of a mystery… but what’s no mystery is the fact that it’s a snack that’s convenient, easily prepared, and totally delicious.

We’re talking about gorp, scroggin’, or as we like to call it, trail mix!

The etymology of the word “gorp” dates back to 1904. A dictionary from this year lists the word gorp as meaning to “eat greedily”. There’s no actual evidence that the word we know and love today is connected to this definition, but if the shoe fits… we’ll happily wear it. (Maybe we’re gloating because our gorp mixes are so drool worthy. But more on that later!)

The word appears in English again in the 1960’s, with the same meaning as the word we use today. Gorp is an acronym for “granola, oats, raisins, peanuts” and “good old raisins and peanuts”. Another interesting name to note appears in Britain, Australia, and New Zealand where gorp is more commonly known as “scroggin’” 

“Trail mix” is an American term for the tasty treat. Who knew?

Whatever name you prefer, trail mix is a staple snack for outdoor lovers, known for its high-protein, high-fat nature and sweet & salty deliciousness. 

What makes trail mix our favorite snack of 2022? Let’s chow down and dive in.


CONVENIENT AND EASY

Gorp is popular because it’s portable, storable, and long-lasting. It’s a great option for snacking on the move or for taking along for a hike, road trip, or journey of any sort. Loaded with nutrients that keep you fuller for longer, gorp makes the perfect snack for busy people, active folks, and anyone needing a burst of energy.


CREATIVE AND CUSTOMIZABLE

One of the best features of gorp is that it’s customizable, and fun to customize! Here at Nature’s Garden, we have dozens of delicious options, featuring sweeter mixes and savory mixes. Whether you’re craving chocolate, cheese, pretzels, or good old raisins and peanuts, there’s a Nature’s Garden mix that has what you’re looking for. 

And if you’re wanting to get creative, you can add your favorite ingredients to our mixes, or make your own gorp with whatever your heart desires. Experiment and add some diversity to your diet! Get the kids involved and make snacking fun for the whole family.


PROTEIN PUNCH

Gorp contains lots of high protein ingredients, with nuts and seeds being at the top of that list. Protein helps the body build muscle, repair tissue, and boost immunity. Protein also may help support weight loss and maintenance as it reduces your appetite and makes you feel full. When selecting a high-protein mix, look for nuts like peanuts, pistachios, walnuts, and cashews.


THE GOOD KIND OF FAT

Not all fat is bad fat. Nuts and seeds are heart-healthy, unsaturated fats. These fats could decrease bad cholesterol levels, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Some research shows that unsaturated fatty acids may be linked to a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Nuts and seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids as well. Omega-3s help the body make hormones that regulate blood clotting, contraction and relaxation of artery walls, and inflammation.

If you’re looking for a sign to get your gorp on, this is it! Get the family together and make it a weekly tradition to create your own mixes. Buy a package of our snack packs to throw into your purse, school bags, and lunch boxes. Browse our selection of decadent mixes designed to fuel the body and mind. 

Whatever the mood, wherever the place – trail mix, gorp, scroggin’ – is the perfect snack for everywhere and anywhere.

Sharing our thanks to the Washington Trails Association and REI Co-op for some of the information used in this article.

 

Posted by Andrew Engelson at Oct 03, 2006  

https://www.wta.org/news/signpost/456

 

Posted by Ashley Brown at March 9, 2020 

https://www.rei.com/blog/hike/the-origins-of-gorp 

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