I know from experience that energy bars and sports drinks don't cut it. So says Dr. Suzanne Nelson Steen, a sports nutritionists who works with athletes at the University of Washington. Along with that, says Steen, energy bars provide concentrated carbohydrates in body-friendly form. OK, maybe the team gripes a little, but to some extent your crew has to buy into the idea that they're eating fuel, not food. But three days of sports drinks and energy bars alone won't do it.
Bagels are another good item, perhaps topped with peanut butter.
For protein, string cheese and low-fat meats such as deli turkey can be helpful. Sandwiches with sourdough or wheat bread, turkey breast, havarti cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce might go down well, or meatless sandwiches with whole wheat bread, cream cheese, sunflower seeds, tomatoes, sprouts, Swiss cheese, cucumbers and lettuce. Assuming the team has some down time, then plan some meals with an emphasis on carbohydrates as well as protein and fats. Pasta with meat sauce is ideal and something that most people enjoy. Asian-style pasta salads, hot or cold, with chicken or even lean beef also would be great.