MRE Menu 3: Chicken, Noodles and Vegetables, in Sauce

MRE Menu 3: Chicken, Noodles and Vegetables, in Sauce

Introduction

MREs, also known as "Meals, Ready to Eat," were initially developed for the US army and have been fielded since the early 1980s. These self-contained meals gained popularity during the Gulf War in 1991. In this blog post, we'll explore MREs, specifically focusing on Menu 3: Chicken, Noodles and Vegetables, in Sauce. Let's dive in!

Overview of MREs

MREs are pre-packaged meals designed to provide complete nutrition in a compact and portable form. They are specifically created for military personnel in situations where access to regular food supplies may be limited or impractical. MREs are known for their long shelf life and durability, making them suitable for various environments and conditions.

Menu 3: Chicken, Noodles and Vegetables, in Sauce

MRE Menu 3 features a combination of chicken, noodles, and vegetables in a savory sauce. Let's take a closer look at its contents:

1. Chicken, Noodles, and Vegetables: The main component of this MRE is a hearty mixture of chicken pieces, noodles, and vegetables. The chicken is tender and not stringy, providing a satisfying protein source. The noodles are chunky and short, while the vegetables primarily consist of carrots and mushrooms.

   
   



2. Applesauce with Raspberry Puree: As a side dish, this MRE includes a pack of applesauce with raspberry puree. The puree has a slightly watery consistency and offers a refreshing, subtly sweet taste. It can be enjoyed on its own or spread on the accompanying crackers.

   
   



3. Peanut Butter and Apple Jelly: The MRE provides packets of peanut butter and apple jelly, which can be paired with the crackers for added flavor and variety.

   
   



4. Crackers: Two unsalted crackers are included in the MRE, offering a neutral base for the peanut butter, apple jelly, or applesauce.

   
   



5. Skittles: A packet of Skittles, a popular fruit-flavored candy, provides a sweet treat to round off the meal.

   
   



6. Flameless Ration Heater (FRH): The FRH is a device that uses a chemical reaction to heat up the main meal without requiring an external heat source. It's essential to provide hot food even in challenging conditions. However, water must be supplied separately as MREs do not include it.

   
   



7. Accessory Packet: The accessory packet contains various items to enhance the meal experience. It typically includes gum, hot sauce, sugar, salt, matches, a moist towelette, damp-proof matches, and Lighthouse toilet paper.

   
   



8. Beverage Bag: Newer MREs come with a beverage bag, which serves as a substitute for a mug or canteen. It can be used to mix powdered beverages or as a waterproof bag for personal items.

   
   

MRE Experience and Observations

While MREs have gained a reputation for being monotonous after extended periods of consumption, they generally provide a satisfactory meal in a military context. The specific Menu 3 discussed here offers a flavorful combination of chicken, noodles, and vegetables. The applesauce with raspberry puree provides a pleasant and refreshing side dish, while the crackers, peanut butter, and apple jelly offer additional options for customization.

The flameless ration heater effectively warms up the main meal, ensuring a hot and satisfying eating experience. However, it's important to note that MREs are designed as single meals and not intended for continuous daily consumption. Soldiers typically eat two or three MREs a day when access to a field kitchen is not possible.

Conclusion

MREs serve as convenient, self-contained meals developed for military personnel in challenging conditions. While they may not be practical for everyday civilian use, MREs can be suitable for outdoor activities like hiking or camping. The provided variety of flavors and components allows for some customization, and the flameless ration heater ensures a hot meal even in the absence of cooking facilities.

However, as a civilian, you have the freedom to choose and tailor your meals according to personal preferences. With some creativity, it's possible to create a customized meal similar to an MRE using readily available food items. MREs remain a fascinating and functional solution for military personnel, offering nourishment and convenience in adverse situations.

Note: The content of this blog post is based on the author's personal experience and research. Prices and availability of MREs may vary.