Zakład Przemysłu Cukierniczego “Piast” Sp. z o.o. from Głogówek is one of those Polish brands whose modest regional presence hides over a century of history and a truly unique position — the sole manufacturer of military hardtack for the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland. Originating from the historic Knieling gingerbread factory operating in Głogówek since the 19th century, the company has continuously supplied the Polish military with SU-series military hardtack since 1938 — durable field bread that has accompanied soldiers on missions, exercises, and active service for more than 30 years. In military slang, the term “Piast hardtack” (unofficially nicknamed “armor wafers”) has long achieved legendary status.
History and manufacturing tradition
The roots of ZPC Piast date back to the historic Knieling gingerbread factory in Głogówek — a bakery and confectionery production facility that became part of the culinary tradition of the Opole region in the early 20th century. After 1945, the plant came under Polish administration and specialized in durable baked goods for the military. The SU-series military hardtack became the company’s flagship product — combining a simple recipe with a baking technology that ensures exceptional shelf life, resistance to field conditions, and high caloric value. It is a product that performs reliably both in the heat of Afghanistan and during night exercises in rainy Polish forests.
SU hardtack — a legend of the Polish military
The SU-series special hardtack has achieved near-legendary status among Polish soldiers. SU-2 is the classic wheat-and-rye variant with caraway seeds — hard, durable, and high in calories. SU-3 is the version with freeze-dried fruit — sweeter and with a softer texture, popular among both soldiers and civilian users. SU-4 is a beef-and-pepper hardtack — savory and full of bold flavor. Each variant is available in single packs and multipacks intended for long-term storage. The packaging is waterproof and resistant to harsh transport conditions in the field. High caloric density (370–420 kcal/100 g) combined with low weight makes Piast hardtack an ideal food source when backpack carrying capacity is limited.
Long shelf life — an advantage for survivalists
One of the key advantages of Piast hardtack is its exceptional durability — the shelf life can reach up to 24 months, placing it among the best options for long-term emergency food supplies. Compared to ordinary bread, which goes stale within days, Piast hardtack maintains its properties for years when stored properly. Moisture-resistant packaging allows it to be safely stored in basements, vehicles, or emergency backpacks without fear of spoilage. It is a natural addition to a BOB (Bug Out Bag) and home emergency food reserves.
Who Piast hardtack is for
Although Piast hardtack is produced for the military, its advantages are equally appreciated by civilians: hikers, GOPR and WOPR rescue personnel, mountain runners, and survival enthusiasts. A Polish brand, Polish production, and a long list of practical advantages make it a natural choice for emergency kits in the event of power outages, floods, or other crisis situations. On a daily basis, it also works perfectly as food for multi-day trekking and mountain expeditions, where every gram carried in a backpack matters. Both the fruit and beef variants have loyal fans among travelers with different taste preferences.
Piast at Militaria.pl
At Militaria.pl, you will find Piast SU military hardtack — legendary Polish military field bread with a century-old tradition, available in classic, fruit, and beef variants. It is not only a soldier’s ration, but also an excellent long-lasting survival food for every active person who understands that in the field, food must be lightweight, durable, and energy-rich.
