Rations (Meal, Ready-to-Eat)

Rations, specifically Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE), are packaged meals designed for convenience and nutrition, primarily used by military personnel. Each MRE contains a complete meal that is lightweight, waterproof, and has a long shelf life, making them suitable for field conditions. They typically include an entrée, side dish, dessert, and sometimes a drink mix, all in a sealed pouch. MREs are designed to be easy to prepare—often just needing hot water or can be eaten cold—ensuring that soldiers can sustain their energy in challenging environments without depending on traditional cooking methods.