> So even if the meat is thoroughly cooked first -- it could still get
> contaminated by being out for 3-4 hours?  Guess I'll be sticking with
tinned sardines &
>  hard boiled eggs.

yes..it can travel in the air in micro droplets or whatever the term might
be.
the chance is very, very small, but it's increased if you are out in the
wilds.
if u get it, the chances of dying are quite good, and can be within a few
hours.

what about taking some German sausage?  There's one called hunting sausage
for exactly that purpose, giving hunters something to eat and easy to take.



Andrew