As the main operational food ration for the United States Armed Forces, soldiers, airmen, coasties, and squids know all the ins and outs of the Meal, Ready to Eat (MRE). Having evolved from the C-rations and K-rations of World War II, the MRE took inside the stomachs of American fighting men and women in 1980. For modern survivalists, we suggest you supplement your stored food supply with cases of MREs. In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, it might be handy to have a few weeks worth on hand, especially since they’re so easy to prepare. The MRE is easily recognizable in its plain brown plastic wrapping with black lettering. You can even eat it cold if you like, though we have it on good authority that the contents are MUCH better heated either by boiling water or with the included Flameless Ration Heater. An MRE stored at 80 degrees Fahrenheit should easily last three years and probably longer. And just what are you putting into yourself when you consume one of these babies? Each MRE is a completely self-contained single meal for a soldier on the go. Built to withstand rough conditions and exposure to the elements, you can enjoy a tasty choice of 24 different menus of 1,250 calories each. Here’s what you can expect to find when you open up the package. • Entree – the main course, such as Spaghetti or Beef Stew • Side dish – rice, corn, fruit, or mashed potatoes, etc. • Cracker or Bread • Spread – peanut butter, jelly, or cheese spread • Dessert – cookies or pound cakes • Candy – M&Ms, Skittles, or Tootsie Rolls • Beverages – Gatorade-like drink mixes, cocoa, dairy shakes, coffee, tea • Hot sauce or seasoning – in some MREs • Flameless Ration Heater – to heat up the entree • Accessories – spoon, matches, creamer, sugar, salt, chewing gum, toilet paper, etc. Can you make your long term food stock using nothing but MREs? You could but…yuck. They’re fine for short term quick meals but we are pretty sure you WOULD get tired of them quickly after more than a few days. Some information for this blog was pulled from the website www.mreinfo.com. If you’re interested in learning more, please pay them a visit. The Holistic Survival Team