How many MREs you need per day depends on your activity level
While military recommendations suggest three MREs per day for active service members, civilians may need fewer depending on their situation. Each military-issue MRE contains an average of 1,250 calories, offering a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats designed to fuel high-intensity physical activity. For those with lower activity levels, such as during a short-term power outage, two MREs might be sufficient.
Factors influencing your MRE consumption
Your daily requirement for MREs is not a one-size-fits-all number. Several critical factors dictate how many you should eat:
- Activity Level: A stationary individual sheltering in place will have significantly different caloric needs than someone hiking with a heavy pack during an evacuation. Intense physical activity burns more calories, necessitating more food intake.
- Body Size and Metabolism: Larger individuals and those with faster metabolisms naturally require more calories to maintain their body weight and energy levels.
- Environmental Conditions: Your caloric burn increases in colder weather as your body works harder to maintain its core temperature. Conversely, hot weather can sometimes suppress appetite, but staying hydrated remains crucial.
- Duration of Consumption: MREs are designed for short-term use, typically no longer than 21 days straight. For prolonged use, supplementing with other food sources is highly recommended due to the low fiber content and potential for nutrient deficiencies.
Comparing MRE needs across different scenarios
Understanding how your needs change based on the situation is crucial for effective emergency planning. Below is a comparison of MRE consumption in various scenarios.
| Scenario | Activity Level | MREs Per Day | Daily Calorie Range | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Military Operations | High - Intense physical activity, high stress | 3 | ~3,750 | Designed for performance, high sodium content |
| Short-Term Emergency | Low to Moderate - Sheltering in place | 2-3 | ~2,500-3,000 | Adjust based on personal calorie needs; monitor hydration |
| Evacuation (on foot) | High - Hiking or walking long distances | 3+ (often with supplements) | ~3,000+ | Consider supplementing with lighter, calorie-dense foods |
| Extended Preparedness | Low to Moderate - Rationing | 1+ (with supplements) | Variable | Must supplement with high-fiber foods to avoid gastrointestinal issues |
The MRE paradox: balancing convenience with nutrition
While MREs offer immense convenience and a long shelf life, their nutritional profile is a trade-off. For short-term survival, the high calorie count is a significant asset. However, long-term reliance exposes inherent weaknesses. MREs are notoriously low in dietary fiber, which can lead to digestive issues and constipation—a common complaint among military personnel that has earned the rations the nickname "Meals, Refusing to Exit". The high sodium content, which helps with preservation and can replenish electrolytes lost during intense activity, is a concern for less active individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions.
To mitigate these issues during extended periods, supplementing your diet with other stored foods is vital. High-fiber items like oats, nuts, dried fruits, and vegetables can help balance your intake. This strategy allows you to leverage the robust caloric density of MREs for energy while addressing their nutritional shortcomings.
Practical advice for preppers and outdoor enthusiasts
For those building a comprehensive emergency food supply, a mixed approach is best. Consider storing enough MREs for a short-term, high-intensity scenario, such as the first few days of a disaster. For longer-term plans, use MREs as a supplemental, high-calorie component alongside lighter, more nutritionally balanced alternatives like freeze-dried meals, canned goods, and essential supplements. This approach ensures you have a varied, nutritious, and palatable food supply that addresses both immediate and long-term needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no single right answer to how many MREs per day you should eat. The appropriate amount is a dynamic calculation based on your activity, environment, and the duration of your needs. For most scenarios, a range of two to three MREs per day is a safe starting point. However, smart preparedness dictates understanding the trade-offs of relying solely on MREs, particularly for extended periods. By supplementing with other food sources, you can ensure a more balanced diet that sustains both your energy and overall health in a crisis.
