How to Make Your Own MREs

Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) is a convenient option for various situations like backpacking, camping, emergencies, and general preparedness. While store-bought MREs are readily available, making your own MRE-type meals can provide a cost-effective and customizable alternative. By assembling the right ingredients, you can create homemade MREs that meet your specific needs.

Gather the Essential Components

The first step in creating your own MREs is to gather the necessary components. These components include:

1. Food Items: Select non-perishable food items that are easy to store and require minimal preparation. Canned meats, such as tuna or chicken, are excellent sources of protein. Other options include dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, and instant noodles. Tuna or chicken in pouches are ideal to reduce weight.

2. Snacks: Include a variety of snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or jerky to provide quick energy and satisfy cravings. Almond butter or PB&J packets are good additions. A dry cookie is a nice touch.

3. Fruit and Veg: Consider adding in vegetable chips, dried apricots, or freeze-dried fruits for nutrients.

4. Water: Pack water pouches or water purification tablets to ensure you have a safe and reliable water source. A steel water bottle can not only store water but also be used for boiling water.

5. Utensils: Include a compact set of utensils, such as a spork, for easy eating.

6. Heating Source: Depending on your needs, you can include a portable stove, fuel tablets, fire starters, or waterproof matches for heating your meals.

7. Extras: Consider adding condiments, seasonings, and even a small portable stove for added flavor and convenience.

Prepare and Package

Once you have gathered all the necessary components, it's time to prepare and package your homemade MREs:

1. Food Preparation: If needed, cook or prepare the food items beforehand. For example, if you include instant noodles, you can pre-cook them and then dehydrate them for easier storage.

2. Portioning: Divide the food items into individual portions based on your desired serving sizes. Consider using vacuum-sealed bags or resealable containers to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Individual-sized mylar pouches are available and protect dry food for extended periods.

3. Labeling: Clearly label each package with the contents and the date of preparation. This will help you keep track of the freshness and rotation of your MREs.

4. Packaging: Place all the components, including the food items, snacks, water, utensils, heating source, and extras, into a durable and waterproof container. Airtight plastic containers or heavy-duty freezer bags work well for this purpose.

Storage and Rotation

Proper storage and rotation are essential for maintaining the quality and safety of your homemade MREs:

1. Temperature: Store your MREs in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage and extend their shelf life.

2. Rotation: Regularly check the expiration dates of the food items and replace any that are approaching their expiration date. It is recommended to consume and replace your MREs every 6 to 12 months.

3. Inventory Management: Keep an inventory list of the contents and quantities of your MREs. This will help you track what you have on hand and plan for replenishment.

By following these steps, you can create your own MREs that are tailored to your preferences and needs. Homemade MREs provide a sense of self-sufficiency and preparedness, ensuring you have a reliable source of food in various situations.