Over the years, my body seems to have changed for cycling fuel demands. First 6-7 years, when I restarted cycling (early 30's), I could cycle 30 kms. on a hot summer morning with only 1 c. of tea with a bit of milk and a slice of bread.

I can't quite do that sort of thing now. During a ride I need something every 2.5-3 hrs., particularily a ride that has 2-3 hills...usually a small muffin, cookie or 1/2 of sandwich with some water/coffee/natural juice works for me.

What's Gatorade ? I avoid the stuff and similar energy drinks. Natural fruit juices..and a coffee pick me up. Any carbonated drink, ie. Coke, Pepsi...would be a desperate measure for me ...if there was nothing else available. I normally don't even drink carbonated drinks off-the bike. because of gas.

Yes, I will drink hot coffee on a sweltering 85+ F degree summer day in middle of a ride...

I like small fruits --part of a banana, tangerine, etc.
Fruit leather is nice. I seldom have..I actually forget about energy bars alot of the times. Reminds me of a loaded trip for 5 days where someone in group brought a box of 100 Cliff bars. After 6 Cliff bars over the multi-day ride, got pretty tired of the stuff.

Of course, we forgot....ice cream, soft yogurt..is just great,..if there's time to stop. But I guess the calories are higher...but on a long ride up to 80-100kms., it's welcomed by me.