MREs, or Meals Ready to Eat, are self-contained, shelf-stable meals that are designed to be consumed without refrigeration or cooking. They are often used by the military, campers, and hikers, as well as by people who are preparing for emergencies.
MREs are a convenient and affordable way to get a nutritious meal, and they can be purchased online or at most sporting goods stores. When buying MREs, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of MRE. There are several different types of MREs available, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
- The number of calories. MREs typically contain between 1,200 and 1,400 calories.
- The expiration date. MREs have a shelf life of several years, but it is important to check the expiration date before eating them.
- The price. MREs can range in price from $5 to $10 per meal.
Once you have considered these factors, you can start shopping for MREs. There are several different ways to buy MREs, including:
- Online. There are several websites that sell MREs, including Amazon.com and MREdepot.com.
- At sporting goods stores. Most sporting goods stores sell MREs, including Dick’s Sporting Goods and Cabela’s.
- At military surplus stores. Military surplus stores often sell MREs that have been surplussed by the military.
No matter where you buy MREs, it is important to make sure that you are getting a good deal. Compare prices from different retailers before you make a purchase, and be sure to read the reviews before you buy.
1. Type
The type of MRE you choose is an important factor to consider when buying MREs. There are several different types of MREs available, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. There are also MREs that are designed for specific purposes, such as cold weather or high-altitude environments.
If you have any dietary restrictions, it is important to choose an MRE that meets your needs. For example, if you are a vegetarian, you will need to choose a vegetarian MRE. If you are allergic to gluten, you will need to choose a gluten-free MRE.
The type of MRE you choose will also depend on the environment in which you will be eating it. If you will be eating your MRE in a cold environment, you will need to choose an MRE that is designed for cold weather. If you will be eating your MRE at high altitude, you will need to choose an MRE that is designed for high-altitude environments.
Once you have considered your dietary restrictions and the environment in which you will be eating your MRE, you can start shopping for MREs. There are several different ways to buy MREs, including online, at sporting goods stores, and at military surplus stores.
2. Calories
Calories are a unit of energy that measure the amount of energy that food provides. When buying MREs, it is important to consider the number of calories that each MRE contains. The number of calories in an MRE will vary depending on the type of MRE and the manufacturer.
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Energy Needs
The number of calories that you need each day depends on a number of factors, including your age, activity level, and weight. If you are not sure how many calories you need each day, you can use a calorie calculator to estimate your daily calorie needs.
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MRE Calorie Content
MREs typically contain between 1,200 and 1,400 calories. This is enough to provide a person with a full meal, but it is not enough to provide a person with all of the calories that they need for the day. If you are planning on eating MREs for multiple meals, you will need to make sure that you are getting enough calories from other sources.
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Calorie Considerations
When buying MREs, it is important to consider your calorie needs and the calorie content of the MREs that you are buying. If you are not sure how many calories you need each day, you can use a calorie calculator to estimate your daily calorie needs. You should also read the nutrition information on the MREs that you are buying to make sure that they contain the number of calories that you need.
By considering the number of calories in MREs, you can make sure that you are getting the right amount of energy from your food.
3. Expiration Date
The expiration date is a critical factor to consider when buying MREs. MREs are shelf-stable meals that do not require refrigeration or cooking, but they do have a limited shelf life. The expiration date is the last date that the MRE is guaranteed to be safe to eat. After the expiration date, the MRE may still be safe to eat, but it is not guaranteed.
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Food Safety
Eating an MRE after the expiration date can pose a food safety risk. The MRE may contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
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Nutritional Value
The nutritional value of an MRE may decrease after the expiration date. The MRE may lose some of its vitamins and minerals, and the food may not be as flavorful.
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Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of an MRE may change after the expiration date. The food may become more dry or tough, and the flavors may not be as intense.
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Legal Liability
Selling or donating MREs after the expiration date may be illegal in some jurisdictions. It is important to check the laws in your area before selling or donating MREs.
By considering the expiration date when buying MREs, you can help to ensure that you are getting a safe and nutritious meal. You should also be aware of the legal implications of selling or donating MREs after the expiration date.
4. Price
The price of MREs is an important factor to consider when buying MREs. MREs can range in price from $5 to $10 per meal. The price of an MRE will vary depending on the type of MRE, the manufacturer, and the retailer.
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Type of MRE
The type of MRE will affect the price. For example, vegetarian MREs and gluten-free MREs are typically more expensive than regular MREs.
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Manufacturer
The manufacturer of the MRE will also affect the price. Some manufacturers are known for producing high-quality MREs, while others are known for producing more affordable MREs.
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Retailer
The retailer where you buy the MREs will also affect the price. Some retailers offer discounts on MREs, while others sell MREs at a higher price.
When buying MREs, it is important to compare prices from different retailers. You should also read the reviews of MREs before you buy them. This will help you to make sure that you are getting a good deal on a quality product.
The price of MREs is an important factor to consider, but it should not be the only factor. You should also consider the type of MRE, the manufacturer, and the retailer when buying MREs.
5. Availability
Availability is a key factor to consider when buying MREs. MREs are available in a variety of locations, including online retailers, sporting goods stores, and military surplus stores. The availability of MREs will vary depending on the location and the type of MRE that you are looking for.
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Online Retailers
Online retailers are a convenient option for buying MREs. There are a number of online retailers that sell MREs, including Amazon.com and MREdepot.com. Online retailers typically have a wide selection of MREs available, and they can offer competitive prices. However, shipping costs can be a factor when buying MREs online.
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Sporting Goods Stores
Sporting goods stores are another option for buying MREs. Many sporting goods stores sell MREs, including Dick’s Sporting Goods and Cabela’s. Sporting goods stores typically have a smaller selection of MREs than online retailers, but they may have lower shipping costs.
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Military Surplus Stores
Military surplus stores are a good option for finding MREs at a discounted price. Military surplus stores sell MREs that have been surplussed by the military. These MREs may have been used in training exercises or they may be outdated. However, they are still safe to eat and they can be a good value.
When buying MREs, it is important to consider the availability of the MREs that you are looking for. You should also consider the shipping costs and the price of the MREs. By considering all of these factors, you can make sure that you are getting the best possible deal on MREs.
FAQs about How to Buy MREs
This section answers commonly asked questions about buying Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), providing essential information for informed decision-making.
6. Q1. What types of MREs are available?
MREs come in various types, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and those designed for specific environments like cold weather or high altitudes. Consider your dietary needs and the conditions in which you’ll consume the MREs.
7. Q2. How many calories are in an MRE?
MREs typically provide between 1,200 to 1,400 calories, offering a substantial meal. However, they may not fulfill your daily calorie requirements. Plan accordingly if consuming multiple MREs as your primary food source.
8. Q3. How long is the shelf life of an MRE?
MREs have extended shelf lives, typically several years. Always check the expiration date before consuming an MRE. Consuming an expired MRE poses potential food safety risks and may diminish its nutritional value.
9. Q4. How much do MREs cost?
MREs vary in price depending on the type, manufacturer, and retailer. Expect to pay between $5 to $10 per meal. Compare prices from different sources to find the best deals.
10. Q5. Where can I buy MREs?
MREs are widely available through online retailers, sporting goods stores, and military surplus stores. Online retailers offer a broader selection but may have higher shipping costs. Sporting goods stores provide a more limited selection but potentially lower shipping costs. Military surplus stores sell surplus MREs at discounted prices.
11. Q6. Are there any precautions I should take when buying MREs?
Before purchasing MREs, consider your dietary restrictions, the storage conditions, and the intended use. Ensure that the MREs you buy meet your specific needs and that you store them properly to maintain their quality and safety.
Tips for Buying MREs
To ensure you make informed and satisfactory purchases of Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), consider the following practical tips:
Tip 1: Determine Your Needs
Before purchasing MREs, carefully assess your specific requirements. Consider factors such as dietary preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), environmental conditions (cold weather, high altitude), and the number of calories needed per meal.
Tip 2: Compare Prices and Features
Research different MRE brands and compare their prices, nutritional content, and available flavors. Read reviews from other consumers to gain insights into their experiences and satisfaction levels.
Tip 3: Check Expiration Dates
Always inspect the expiration date printed on the MRE packaging. Avoid purchasing MREs that are close to or past their expiration date, as their quality and safety may be compromised.
Tip 4: Consider Storage Requirements
MREs are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration. However, proper storage conditions are essential to maintain their optimal quality and prevent spoilage. Store MREs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Tip 5: Plan for Supplementation
While MREs provide a substantial meal, they may not fulfill all your daily nutritional requirements. Consider supplementing your MRE consumption with additional food items, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, or protein bars, to ensure a balanced diet.
Tip 6: Explore Variety and Flavors
MREs come in a variety of flavors and menu options. Explore different brands and flavors to find ones that suit your taste preferences. This will make consuming MREs more enjoyable and less monotonous.
Summary
By following these tips, you can make well-informed decisions when purchasing MREs. Remember to consider your specific needs, compare options, check expiration dates, store MREs properly, supplement your diet as needed, and explore the variety of flavors available. These measures will ensure you have a satisfactory experience with your MRE purchases.
In Summation
Understanding how to buy MREs empowers you to make informed decisions when selecting these convenient and nutritious meals. By considering your specific needs, comparing options, and following recommended practices, you can ensure a satisfactory experience. Remember, MREs are a valuable resource for various situations, from emergencies to outdoor adventures.
As you incorporate MREs into your preparedness plans or outdoor excursions, their ease of use and extended shelf life will provide peace of mind. Embrace the variety of flavors and menu options available to make your MRE consumption enjoyable. By following these guidelines, you can confidently navigate the world of MREs and make purchases that meet your unique requirements.