The Increasing Need for MRE Meals Amidst Natural Disasters
The world is experiencing more natural disasters and extreme weather events than ever before. With snowfall on the US West Coast, floods, hurricanes, and other unpredictable phenomena, it's essential to be prepared for any situation. Having a supply of MRE (Meal, Ready-to-Eat) meals available can prove beneficial in such emergencies.
Understanding Military Food: What are Rations?
Military food is often referred to as rations. MREs are the most well-known type of military ration, designed to be easy to transport, store, and consume in various settings. The U.S. military has 13 types of ration food, including:
- A Ration
- B Ration
- C Ration
- D Ration
- E Ration
- K Ration
- Iron Ration
- Jungle Ration
- and others
Why are MREs So Expensive?
MREs are often considered an ideal emergency food option for preppers because they come with everything needed for a single meal. However, they can be quite expensive compared to other long-term food options, with average prices ranging from $5-$15 each. The reasons for this high cost include:
- Durable packaging: MREs are packed in their own durable containers, which increases production costs.
- Government restrictions: The US government doesn't allow MREs to be sold directly from manufacturers to civilians, so any surplus MREs on the market have gone through a middleman, increasing prices.
Variety in MRE Options: Vegetarian and Plant-based Alternatives
The military currently offers four vegetarian Meals-Ready-to-Eat for service members with dietary restrictions. While they can support those who eat kosher, halal, and vegetarian, there are no solely plant-based options for vegans yet. However, this may change soon. On July 14, the House of Representatives passed the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, which includes an amendment requiring a report on plant-based MREs by September 2023. The study's results will provide information on cost analysis, service member demand, and an implementation plan.
Choosing the Right MRE for Your Needs
When selecting MRE meals for sale, it's essential to consider your specific needs and requirements. Factors to keep in mind include:
- Shelf life: MREs typically have a shelf life of three to five years, making them suitable for long-term storage. Check the manufacturing and expiration dates before purchasing.
- Nutrition content: Ensure that the MRE contains a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat to meet your daily nutritional needs.
- Dietary restrictions: If you have certain dietary requirements or preferences, such as being vegetarian or vegan, look for MRE options that cater to these needs.
- Taste: While not always a top priority in emergencies, consider the taste and variety of MRE meal options to ensure you can consume them when needed.
Where to Buy MRE Meals for Sale
MREs can be purchased from various sources, including:
- Surplus stores: Military surplus stores often stock a wide range of MRE meals at different price points.
- Online retailers: Websites such as Amazon and eBay offer MREs for sale, sometimes at discounted prices or in bulk quantities.
- Outdoor and camping stores: Stores specializing in outdoor and camping equipment may also carry MREs and other long-term food options.
- Specialty retailers: Some companies specialize in producing MREs and emergency food supplies, often with a focus on specific dietary needs or preferences.
In conclusion, the increasing frequency of natural disasters and extreme weather events highlights the importance of being prepared. MRE meals provide a convenient and practical solution for emergency food storage, with various options catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. When purchasing MREs, consider their shelf life, nutritional content, and source to ensure you have reliable sustenance during emergencies.