The Calorie Count of MRE Menu 16: Chicken Burrito Bowl
For anyone relying on MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) for emergency preparedness, military service, or outdoor expeditions, knowing the exact nutritional content is crucial. The MRE Menu 16 is known for its hearty Chicken Burrito Bowl entrée, and it consistently delivers a high-energy meal. The approximate calorie count for this menu is 1,250 calories. This figure is an important reference point, as MREs are designed as a substantial 12-hour ration to power individuals through demanding circumstances.
The calories are strategically distributed among the various components of the meal to provide a balanced energy source. The standard macronutrient breakdown for a typical US military MRE is roughly 13% protein, 36% fat, and 51% carbohydrates, designed for performance-oriented nutrition.
What Is Included in MRE Menu 16?
While the exact contents can vary slightly depending on the production year, the core components of the Chicken Burrito Bowl menu remain consistent. The calorie total comes from the combined energy of all items within the sealed bag, from the main meal to the accessories. A representative version of MRE Menu 16 includes:
- Chicken Burrito Bowl (Chicken with Brown Rice, Beans, and Vegetables)
- Recovery Trail Mix
- Cinnamon Bun
- Plain Tortillas
- Cheddar Cheese Spread
- Hot Sauce
- Orange Beverage Powder (Carb-Fortified)
- Flameless Ration Heater (FRH)
- Accessory Packet (coffee, creamer, sugar substitute, gum, salt, tissues, moist towelette)
How Do the Components Contribute to the Calorie Total?
The bulk of the calories in MRE Menu 16 comes from the main entree, side dishes, and dessert. The Chicken Burrito Bowl itself is a dense mix of chicken, rice, and beans, providing a solid foundation of protein and carbohydrates. The addition of the Cinnamon Bun and Recovery Trail Mix boosts the total calorie count significantly with sugar and fats, which provide quick and sustained energy, respectively. The cheese spread adds further fats and protein, and the carbohydrate-fortified beverage powder contributes to the total carb count, ensuring an efficient energy mix.
MRE Calorie Comparison
It is helpful to compare Menu 16 with other MRE options to understand its caloric placement within the full menu rotation. While calorie counts are generally in a similar range, the specific distribution and total can vary based on the main entree and associated components.
| MRE Menu | Main Entree | Approximate Calorie Count | Key Calorie Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Menu 16 | Chicken Burrito Bowl | ~1,250 calories | Main entree, cinnamon bun, cheese spread, trail mix |
| Menu 2 | Shredded Beef in BBQ Sauce | ~1,250 calories | Main entree, black beans, oatmeal cookie |
| Menu 17 | Pork Sausage Patty w/ Maple Flavor | ~1,250 calories | Main entree, side dish, dessert, spread |
| Menu 10 | Chili and Macaroni | ~1,300 calories | Chili and macaroni entree, snacks, dessert |
How Menus and Calories Change Over Time
The specific meal pairings and calorie counts are not static. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) regularly updates the MRE menu lineup to improve nutritional value, taste, and variety. For example, Menu 16 was a Rib Shaped BBQ Pork Patty before being replaced by the Chicken Burrito Bowl in later menu cycles. While the target calorie range remains consistent across the MRE program, the specific energy profile of Menu 16 may shift slightly over different production years as accompanying snacks are changed or updated.
Conclusion: A Calorie-Dense and Reliable Ration
The MRE Menu 16, featuring the Chicken Burrito Bowl, is a robust and calorie-dense ration designed to provide approximately 1,250 calories. Its comprehensive array of components ensures a balanced intake of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, making it a reliable and effective food source for sustained energy in demanding conditions. For anyone relying on these rations, consuming all parts of the meal is essential to gain the full nutritional benefit and meet the high-energy demands of the situation. The MRE program's commitment to delivering consistent, performance-oriented nutrition is a testament to its effectiveness as a field ration.
For more information on the MRE program and its nutritional requirements, visit the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in the main entrée of Menu 16?
The Chicken Burrito Bowl entrée itself contains only a portion of the total calories. The full 1,250-calorie count comes from all the combined components, including the side dishes, dessert, and beverage.
Does every MRE have the same calorie count as Menu 16?
No. While most military MREs are designed to contain a similar calorie count, averaging around 1,250, there can be slight variations from menu to menu based on the ingredients and components included.
Is the calorie count on the MRE packaging accurate?
The calorie counts provided are generally accurate estimates for the standard menu. However, minor variations in manufacturing or component substitutions can occur, so the total should be considered an approximation.
What is the purpose of having so many calories in a single MRE?
These meals are designed for military personnel, hikers, and survivalists engaged in intense physical activity. The high calorie count ensures that the user has enough energy to function effectively for a significant period, often considered a 12-hour ration.
Why does the menu change over the years?
The MRE menus are updated by the DLA to improve soldier welfare, introduce new items, and optimize nutritional value. For instance, the main entrée for Menu 16 changed from a Rib Shaped BBQ Pork Patty to the Chicken Burrito Bowl in later production years.
Do you have to eat all components of the MRE to get the full nutritional value?
Yes. To receive the full 1,250 calories and balanced macronutrient profile, it is necessary to consume the entire meal, including the main entrée, side dishes, dessert, and beverage.
Can MRE Menu 16 be heated?
Yes. Modern military MREs, including Menu 16, come with a flameless ration heater (FRH). The entrée can also be heated by submerging the sealed pouch in hot water.
