MREs

MREs, or Meals, Ready-to-Eat, are self-contained field rations designed for one person in settings where cooking is impractical. Developed for military use, they aim to provide complete nutrition with durable packaging that can withstand rough handling. Since their introduction in the late 20th century, they have been adopted by many armed forces and by civilian disaster relief agencies, outdoors enthusiasts, and preparedness communities.

A standard MRE arrives in a sealed, retort-style pouch and consists of a main entree, one or more side dishes, crackers or bread, spreads, a dessert, and a beverage mix, along with an accessory pack containing utensils, napkin, condiments, and typically a flameless ration heater. The heater uses an exothermic chemical reaction that, when water is added, warms the meal without flames.

Nutritionally, an MRE provides roughly 1,200 calories per meal with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, though profiles vary by menu. Sodium content is usually high. The shelf life depends on storage temperature and typically ranges from several years at cool temperatures to shorter spans in warm environments. MREs are designed to be ready-to-eat without refrigeration and can be consumed hot or cold.

Variants include vegetarian options and specialized rations for long-range patrols or humanitarian missions. Critics note high cost, waste from packaging, and the reliance on processed foods and salt. Nevertheless, MREs remain a widely used standard for field nutrition in military, emergency response, and civilian outdoor contexts.