Most people think of food storage, camping, or items our military utilizes in the field when they hear the acronym “MRE.” Furthermore, many people believe that freeze-dried meals and MREs are interchangeable. This is not the case with these two long term storage foods, so let’s take a closer look to learn more about them. 

What are MREs?

MREs, or Meals Ready to Eat, were created by the American military as a battle ration that would provide soldiers in the field with a complete three-course meal. The main course is a wet pack, shelf-stable food item, similar to any canned food you would purchase in a grocery store. The entrée is completely prepared and available anytime, hot or cold; no other preparation or planning is necessary. Full MRE dinners are simple to distribute in the field or during an emergency because they typically include a 3-course meal. It is for these reasons that MREs make a fantastic addition to home bug-out bags.

The multi-layered foil seal bag of an MRE may be warmed or heated in other ways, such as by setting the pouch on a hot engine block, a hot dashboard, or a rock in direct sunlight. Due to their portability and compactness, they are popular among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, similarly to freeze dried food meals. MREs typically have a five-year shelf life when kept at a temperature of no more than 70 degrees from the production date.

What Are Freeze Dried Food Meals?

In contrast, through a process known as sublimation (or freeze-drying as it is more commonly known), freeze-dried foods have up to 99 percent of their moisture or water removed. This is accomplished by a method in which the food is cooked, seasoned, and prepared; then, it is flash frozen. The meals are then placed into a freeze-drying chamber, where a vacuum is created, and the chamber is gradually warmed to remove almost all of the foods’ moisture. Although the entire process might take up to 48 hours to complete, the outcome is worthwhile for all of the benefits received.

Freeze dried foods keep their original shape, texture, flavor, and are lightweight. Adding hot water can reconstitute many meals quickly in 5–10 minutes. Other dry food storage items do not usually prepare as quickly or last as long. Additionally, and probably most significantly, freeze-dried foods have the longest proven shelf-lives for long-term preservation, up to 30 years! Freeze-dried meals are popular among campers, hikers, and survivalist groups. They are ideal for any camping trip or emergency food storage plan if you have a stove and some water.

Comparing the Two Types of Food

There are advantages and disadvantages to MREs and freeze-dried meals that you should consider before purchasing. MREs are a fantastic option for short-term crises if you need to bug out quickly, but they have a considerably shorter shelf life of only 4-5 years. They are usually kept in containers that are more resilient to rough packing and transport than freeze dried meals, which tend to be more delicate and prone to breakage.

Freeze-dried meals are unbeatable for many different situations. This is due to their large variety of meal options, storage efficiency, and extraordinarily long shelf life of 30 years. The flavor and nutrition of freeze dried foods are superior to many other portable and long term storage foods.

Depending on the situation you are in or planning for will call for one or the other. You may prefer to use a rugged and easy to transport food for bug-out situations or rudimentary use. Alternatively, you may prefer to create a more gourmet and enjoyable experience with the flexibility of long term storage.

For Those Of You Looking For Freeze Dried Solutions

If you have decided that freeze dried food meals are best for your situation, and would like to take advantage of wholesale benefits, look no further than Shepherd Foods. As an experienced and professional manufacturer of freeze dried foods using only high quality ingredients, our industry-grade facility can deliver for your bulk commercial needs. 

For more information about our expert co-packing and co-manufacturing services, you can give us a call at (800) 497-8321 or visit our website for more information.

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