5 Ways to Prepare an MRE

An image of an MRE

Attention Preppers and Outdoor Enthusiasts! Prepare for the Unexpected with MREs

In the face of emergencies and unforeseen circumstances, having a reliable food source is paramount. Enter MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat), a time-tested way to keep hunger at bay when the usual provisions are scarce. These self-contained, non-perishable meals are the ideal solution for prepping, camping, and emergency situations. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of MRE preparation, ensuring you’re well-equipped to navigate any challenge that may arise.

Assembling Your MRE Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before embarking on an outdoor adventure or facing an emergency, it’s essential to assemble a well-stocked MRE kit. Start by calculating how many meals you’ll need based on the duration of your trip or the severity of the situation. Consider your dietary needs and preferences, as MREs come in various flavors and options, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and kosher selections. Once you’ve determined the quantity and types of MREs you require, store them in a cool, dry place, ensuring their freshness and longevity.

Heating and Consuming MREs: Convenient and Ready to Eat

MREs are renowned for their convenience, providing a quick and easy solution to satiating your hunger on the go. Most MREs come with a flameless ration heater, an ingenious device that allows you to heat your meal without the need for a stove or fire. Simply add water to the heater and place your MRE inside. Within minutes, your meal will be ready to enjoy. Additionally, some MREs are designed to be consumed cold, making them perfect for situations where heating is not an option.

Essential Preparation Steps for MREs

1. Gather Required Materials

Before embarking on MRE preparation, it’s crucial to have the necessary equipment and ingredients on hand. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items:

MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat): The primary component of your meal preparation.
Water: Essential for hydration and rehydrating MRE components.
Fuel: Can be solid fuel tablets, lighter fluid, or other heat sources to warm the meals.
Cooking Utensils: A spoon or spork, knife, and mess kit or bowl are essential for eating and preparation.
Fire Starter: Matches or a lighter to ignite fuel and heat MREs.
Condiments: Salt, pepper, hot sauce, or other seasonings to enhance flavor.
Eating Utensils: Napkins or paper towels, as well as a can opener if needed.

Additionally, consider packing a water purifier or purification tablets if the water source is questionable. Hand sanitizer or soap can also be useful for maintaining hygiene during meal preparation.

Selecting the Right MREs

Consider Your Needs

Determine the purpose of your MREs. Are they for emergency preparedness, military deployment, or outdoor recreation? Each scenario requires different considerations for calorie content, nutritional value, taste preference, and shelf life.

Read the Label

Carefully examine the MRE label for information such as:

Calorie content: Ensure the MRE provides adequate energy for your needs.
Nutritional information: Check for essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients.
Ingredients list: Identify any allergens or dietary restrictions.

Choose for Flavor & Variety

MREs come in a wide variety of flavors. Experiment with different options to find ones that you enjoy. This will increase your likelihood of consuming the MREs in an emergency situation when food options may be limited.

Consider the Shelf Life

MREs have varying shelf lives. Consider the length of time you may need to store them before use. Opt for MREs with a longer shelf life if you intend to stockpile them for emergency preparedness.

Other Factors

Additionally, consider the following factors:

Factor	Considerations
Weight:	Choose lighter MREs for portability.
Price:	Set a budget and compare prices from different manufacturers.
Packaging:	Consider the ease of opening, resealing, and disposal of the packaging.

Hydrating MREs

MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) are a convenient and portable food source for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts alike. However, they can also be dehydrating due to their low water content. To prevent dehydration, it is essential to hydrate MREs properly before consuming them.

I. Rehydrating Dry MREs using Water Heater

Boil water in a pot or water heater.
Open the MRE pouch and remove the food item.
Pour the boiling water into the MRE’s pouch. The amount of water required varies depending on the MRE and is typically indicated on the package.
Stir the food item thoroughly to distribute the water and ensure even rehydration.
Close the pouch and let it sit for the specified rehydration time (usually around 10-15 minutes).

II. Rehydrating Dry MREs using Fire

Build a fire and create a small cooking area.
Open the MRE pouch and remove the food item.
Place the food item in a pot or on a cooking sheet.
Add a small amount of water to the pot or cooking sheet.
Hold the pot or cooking sheet over the fire, stirring occasionally, until the food item is heated through and rehydrated.

III. Rehydrating MREs with Flameless Ration Heater (FRH)

Open the MRE pouch and remove the FRH.
Place the FRH on a flat surface and activate it by tearing the package open and exposing the chemical reaction.
Unfold the FRH and place the MRE pouch on top of it.
The FRH will heat the MRE pouch to a temperature of approximately 100°F (38°C) for a duration of approximately 30-45 minutes.

Types of FRHs

Type	Duration	Temperature
Standard FRH	30-45 minutes	100°F (38°C)
Long-duration FRH	120-180 minutes	100°F (38°C)
High-temperature FRH	30-45 minutes	140°F (60°C)

Heating MREs

1. Open the MRE Packaging

Carefully open the MRE package, being mindful of any sharp edges. Remove the contents and place them on a flat surface.

2. Identify the Flameless Ration Heater (FRH)

Locate the FRH, a small rectangular packet inside the MRE. This is what you’ll use to heat the main meal.

3. Activate the FRH

To activate the FRH, simply add water to the fill line indicated on the packet. Do not overfill. Once water is added, a chemical reaction will occur, generating heat.

4. Heating the Main Meal

Once the FRH is activated, place the main meal pouch on top of the FRH. The heat generated by the FRH will transfer to the main meal, effectively heating it within 10-15 minutes.

FRH Heating Time	Meal Size
10-15 minutes	Single serving main meal pouch
15-20 minutes	Double serving main meal pouch

Storage Considerations for MREs

1. Optimal Storage Conditions

MREs should be stored in a cool, dry place with temperatures between 40°F and 80°F (4°C and 27°C). Avoid extreme temperatures, as high heat can damage the packaging and contents.

2. Protection from Light and Moisture

Store MREs away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration. Additionally, keep them away from moisture to prevent damage to the packaging and contents.

3. Shelf Life Considerations

MREs typically have a shelf life of 3 to 5 years when stored properly. However, external factors such as storage temperature and conditions can affect their longevity.

4. Rotation of Stock

To ensure optimal freshness and quality, it’s recommended to rotate your MRE stock periodically. Use the “first in, first out” (FIFO) method by consuming older MREs before newer ones.

5. Emergency Storage Considerations

Storage Condition	Approximate Shelf Life
Room Temperature (70-80°F / 21-27°C)	6-12 months
Refrigerated (40-50°F / 4-10°C)	12-24 months
Frozen (0°F / -18°C or below)	Indefinitely (quality may degrade over time)

In emergency situations, MREs can be stored in various conditions. However, it’s important to consider the impact on their shelf life. Refrigeration or freezing will extend their lifespan, while room temperature storage will reduce it significantly.

Shelf Life and Expiration Dates

Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MREs) have a specific shelf life, which refers to the length of time they can be stored and maintain their quality and safety before they become unusable or unsafe to consume. The shelf life of MREs varies depending on the type of food and packaging. Typically, MREs have a shelf life of several years, with some lasting up to 5 years or more when stored properly.

Best-By Dates vs. Expiration Dates

MREs have both “best-by” dates and expiration dates. The best-by date indicates the date when the MRE is expected to maintain its optimal quality and flavor. After the best-by date, the MRE may still be safe to consume, but its quality and taste may start to diminish.

The expiration date, on the other hand, is the final recommended date by which the MRE should be consumed. After the expiration date, the MRE may no longer be safe to eat due to potential spoilage or degradation.

Factors Affecting Shelf Life

Several factors can affect the shelf life of MREs, including:

Temperature: Keep MREs stored in cool, dry places to prevent spoilage.
Packaging: Damaged packaging can compromise MRE quality and shelf life.
Oxygen exposure: MREs should be sealed properly to minimize oxygen exposure, which can lead to oxidation and degradation.

Storage Temperature	Shelf Life
Room Temperature (70°F/21°C)	6-12 months
Refrigerated (40°F/4°C)	1-2 years
Frozen (0°F/-18°C)	Up to 5 years or more

It’s important to follow the recommended storage instructions on MRE packaging to ensure optimal shelf life and safety.

Proper Disposal of MRE Packaging

Properly disposing of MRE (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) packaging is crucial for both environmental conservation and personal safety. Follow these guidelines to ensure responsible disposal.

1. Remove Contents

Remove all food items, utensils, and chemical heaters from the packaging before disposal.

2. Flatten Packaging

Flatten the empty packaging to reduce its volume and make it easier to handle.

3. Dispose of Small Items

Small items like utensils, chemical heaters, and wipes can be disposed of in regular trash bags.

4. Recycle Cardboard

The cardboard portion of the MRE packaging can be recycled along with regular cardboard items.

5. Discard Plastic

Plastic pouches and wrappers should be discarded in designated plastic recycling bins or disposed of with regular trash.

6. Dispose of Outer Pouch

The outer pouch made of impermeable material should be cut open, flattened, and disposed of with regular trash.

7. Disposal of Meal Trays

Meal trays are made of a combination of materials that require proper segregation for disposal:

Material	Disposal
Recyclable Plastic	Recycle in designated bins
Non-Recyclable Plastic	Dispose of with regular trash
Aluminum Foil	Recycle in designated bins or dispose of with regular trash
Paper Backing	Compost or recycle in paper waste stream

Supplementary Foods and Hydration

Supplementary Foods

MREs provide a substantial amount of calories, but they may not contain all the nutrients a person needs. Supplementary foods can help fill in the gaps. Some common supplementary foods include:

Trail mix
Granola bars
Jerky
Fruit snacks

Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential for survival. MREs typically include a powdered drink mix, but it may not be enough to keep a person hydrated, especially in hot or humid environments. It’s important to carry extra water or sports drinks to supplement the fluids provided by the MRE.

Types of Fluids

The best fluids to drink for hydration are water and sports drinks. Water is the most effective at rehydrating the body, while sports drinks can help replace electrolytes that are lost through sweat.

Fluid	Benefits
Water	Most effective at rehydrating the body
Sports drinks	Replaces electrolytes lost through sweat

How Much Fluid to Drink

The amount of fluid a person needs to drink per day depends on a number of factors, including activity level, climate, and individual sweat rate. A good rule of thumb is to drink eight glasses of water per day.

Special Considerations for Individuals with Dietary Restrictions

Allergies

If you have any food allergies, it is crucial to check the ingredient list of MREs carefully before consuming them. Some common allergens found in MREs include wheat, dairy, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish. If you are allergic to any of these ingredients, it is best to avoid the MREs containing them.

Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes need to be mindful of the carbohydrate content of MREs. Many MREs are high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar levels to spike. If you have diabetes, it is important to choose MREs that are low in carbohydrates and eat them in moderation.

Vegetarian and Vegan Diets

There are limited options for vegetarians and vegans in standard MREs. However, some companies offer specialized MREs that cater to these dietary restrictions. These MREs typically contain plant-based proteins, fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Other Dietary Restrictions

There may be other dietary restrictions that individuals need to consider when consuming MREs, such as lactose intolerance, celiac disease, or kidney disease. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action when following a specific diet.

Halal and Kosher Considerations

Individuals who follow halal or kosher dietary restrictions should also be aware of the ingredients in MREs. Some MREs may contain ingredients that are not permissible under these dietary laws. It is important to check the ingredient list carefully or look for MREs that are specifically certified as halal or kosher.

Nutritional Information Table

The following table provides nutritional information for a typical MRE:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	1,250-1,500
Protein	100-150g
Carbohydrates	200-300g
Fat	50-75g
Fiber	10-15g
Sodium	3,000-4,000mg

Maximizing MREs for Long-Term Survival

1. Water Conservation

MREs contain minimal water, so it’s crucial to ration it carefully. Drink slowly and avoid using it for cooking or washing. If possible, collect additional water sources or use water purification tablets.

2. Calorie Management

MREs provide around 1,200 calories per bag, which may be insufficient for long-term survival. Supplement with high-calorie foods like nuts, energy bars, or cooking oils.

3. Food Safety

Always cook MREs thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses. Use a stove or fire if available, or boil water and let it cool before adding it to the MRE bag.

4. Meal Frequency

Spread out MRE consumption to avoid spikes in blood sugar. Eat small meals throughout the day to maintain energy levels and prevent stomach upset.

5. Nutrient Supplementation

MREs can be low in certain vitamins and minerals. Consider supplementing with multivitamins, electrolyte tablets, or fruits if possible.

6. Meal Customization

Add flavor or boost calories by adding seasonings, spices, or other ingredients to MREs. This can enhance palatability and provide additional nutrients.

7. Rationing

Plan your MRE consumption carefully to ensure they last as long as possible. Estimate your daily calorie needs and stick to a rationing schedule.

8. Waste Reduction

Minimize waste by consuming all edible components of MREs, including accessories like spoons and wipes. Recycle or properly dispose of non-edible items.

9. Bartering Value

MREs can be a valuable commodity in a survival situation. Consider using them for bartering with other survivors or for acquiring essential supplies.

10. Supplementation with Other Foods

MREs should be supplemented with other food sources to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet. This can include foraging for wild edibles, hunting, or fishing.

Nutrient	Recommended Daily Intake	MRE Content
Calories	2,000-2,500	1,200
Protein	50-75g	30g
Carbohydrates	200-300g	150g
Fat	50-75g	20g
Vitamins and Minerals	Varies	Limited

How to Prepare MRE

Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs) are individual field rations produced by the United States Department of Defense. They are designed to provide a single person with a complete meal in a lightweight, easy-to-carry package. MREs can be consumed without cooking, but heating them will make them more palatable.

To prepare an MRE, follow these steps:

Remove the MRE from the packaging. The outer packaging is made of a durable plastic that can be discarded after use.
Open the food items. The MRE contains a variety of food items, including an entree, a side dish, a dessert, a bread or cracker product, and a spread or condiment. Open each item carefully, being careful not to spill the contents.
Heat the food. If you want to heat the food, you can use the included Flameless Ration Heater (FRH). To use the FRH, add water to the base of the heater, place the food item on the top of the heater, and light the heater. The FRH will heat the food in about 10 minutes.
Enjoy your meal! Once the food is heated, you can enjoy your MRE. The food is typically high in calories and fat, so it is important to eat it in moderation.