Choosing the right MRE for work or fun. 

There are a wide variety of MREs available from numerous nations around the world. It can be difficult to know which MRE may be best for your needs either in the field or for fun. 

This guide will walk you through some basic considerations for use in various situations and settings.

Will you use them for work or pleasure? 

Are you looking for an MRE to use in the field either for work or for serious outdoor usage? 
or
Are you looking to try new exciting foods from around the world? 


Answering this question will guide many of your choices related to weight, price, type/format, and nation of origin. 

For example: if you are an outdoorsman or truck driver, you may be looking for a cost effective, no frills solution with familiar foods and tastes. 

The best solution for this would be the lower cost and more familiar USA MRE and First Strike Rations: 

https://mremountain.com/collections/usa-mres-and-meal-cold-weather

Cold weather or warm weather?

The next question you should ask is will you be using the MREs in conditions below freezing (32 F or 0 C)? 

If so, you will need to go with a freeze dried ration like the Norway Arctic Field Ration below. Regular Ready to Eat meals may freeze solid in cold weather. 

https://mremountain.com/products/norwegian-arctic-field-ration?variant=6812036169762

or the USA Meal Cold Weather

https://mremountain.com/products/usa-meal-cold-weather-full-case?variant=5625725878306

These rations contain freeze dried main meals to be prepared with boiling water as well as ready to eat snacks.

Regular Ready to Eat meals may freeze solid in cold weather. 

Looking for something exotic? 

If you are looking for new tastes and foods from around the world then consider the rare foods contained in the French, Belarus and Latvian MREs. 

https://mremountain.com/products/french-armed-forces-rcir-24-hr-combat-ration-pack-mre?variant=12877486587938

https://mremountain.com/products/belarus-armed-forces-24-hour-combat-ration

https://mremountain.com/products/latvian-armed-forces-combat-ration-mre?variant=49202789965

How important is shelf life? 

The industry average for shelf life is about 3 years. If you need very long shelf life, freeze dried rations usually last longer and can last up to 7 years.