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MRE meals stands for Meals Ready to Eat, and are a type of prepackaged food used mostly by campers, survivalists, and servicemen. The meals were first used as soldier rations in the military during the Revolutionary War in the U.S.

Military MREs differ from the packaged meals found in many camping gear supply stores because they usually are not freeze dried, which tends to make them heavier to carry around.

Each meal typically supplies about 1,200 calories and has a shelf life of about 3 and a half years if kept within a normal temperature range between 32 degrees Fahrenheit and 81 degrees Fahrenheit. A triple layer of packaging is required for the meal to pass safety regulations.

Also, meals are date coded with the year and production date, as well as the lot number in case of Food and Drug Administration recalls. MREs can be an important part of an emergency survival plan due to their long shelf life and self-heating property, especially when the ability to cook is limited.

Over the years, prepackaged MRE meals have evolved from basic food rations with no thought to taste or variety that had to be eaten cold, to widely varying menu items that include desserts and self heating containers. MREs usually come in packs of 6 or 12. A typical meal would contain an entrée, side dish, condiments, dessert, instant drink, and a heating mechanism.

Military MREs are only accessible by the military, but anybody can purchase civilian MREs on sale from military surplus, or retailers that specialize in camping and survivalist equipment. When purchasing MREs from surplus, make sure to check the date code in order to avoid purchasing a meal that has already passed, or soon will pass, the 3 and a half year mark from the item’s date of creation.

The amount paid for the MREs will differ depending on where and from whom they are purchased. Full meals do not have to be purchased, as there are also solitary entrees, side dishes, and desserts that are available. The beef ravioli selection and the barbecued pork were picked as best tasting entrees in a consumer taste test. The pound cake was picked as one of the best tasting desserts.

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