How to Prepare an MRE (Meals Ready to Eat)

Last Updated: September 12, 2022

MRE's (Meals Ready to Eat) are meals that the military eats while overseas or not at their regular stations. They are easy to store, compact, convenient, and contain all the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

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Question

Can I use cold water?

Community Answer

I'm sure you "can," as in the meal would still be edible, but there would be a huge quality and consistency difference. I would recommend you stick with hot water if you can.

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Question

How many MREs are in a case?

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There are typically 12 MREs in a case.

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Will it work just to heat in small pot of boiled water?

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Yes you can heat an MRE in boiled water just make sure it's medium level of heat and then cook for 5-8 minutes.

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Tips

The items usually contained in a MRE are the main entrée, side dish, crackers, peanut butter, cheese spread, dessert, instant coffee, matches, heater, and a spoon. ^{[5]
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MREs can be eaten cold or warm, depending on the entrée -- some of them don't taste good when they are cold. ^{[6]
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MREs are great for emergency purposes, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

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Warnings

The heater gets very hot, so be cautious.

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Don't use the heaters indoors, they put off a poison gas.

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Never pour used heater water down the drain or near any fresh water areas.

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If you do not use the heater remember to activate and dispose of it properly.

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How to Prepare an MRE (Meals Ready to Eat)

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