Who Makes MREs for the Military?
The Military Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) has been a staple of military rations for decades, providing soldiers with a nutritious and convenient meal in the field. But who makes these meals for the military? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and delve into the history, production, and quality control of MREs.
A Brief History of MREs
The concept of pre-cooked, pre-packaged meals dates back to World War II, when the US military began issuing canned rations to soldiers. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the MRE was officially developed. The first MREs were produced by the military itself, with the US Army’s Natick Soldier Systems Center (NSSC) serving as the lead agency. The initial production of MREs was handled by a few major contractors, including:
- Sopakco: A South Carolina-based company that has been producing MREs for the military since the 1980s.
- MRE Technologies: A Texas-based company that has been involved in MRE production since the 1990s.
- Food Industries of America: A Louisiana-based company that has been producing MREs for the military since the 1980s.
Current MRE Contractors
Today, the US military contracts with a range of companies to produce MREs. Some of the major contractors include:
Company | Location | MRE Production Start |
---|---|---|
Sopakco | South Carolina | 1980s |
MRE Technologies | Texas | 1990s |
Food Industries of America | Louisiana | 1980s |
AmeriQual | Indiana | 2000s |
Field to Food | Texas | 2000s |
Central Arizona Supply | Arizona | 2000s |
DRS Technologies | New Jersey | 2000s |
The MRE Production Process
The production of MREs involves a complex process that involves several stages, including:
- Menu Planning: The military’s food scientists and nutritionists develop menus that meet the nutritional needs of soldiers.
- Food Production: The contracted companies produce the food items, which are then packaged and prepared for MREs.
- Component Assembly: The food items are assembled into MREs, which include a main course, side dishes, and accessories such as condiments and utensils.
- Packaging: The MREs are packaged in waterproof, durable bags that can withstand extreme temperatures and environmental conditions.
- Quality Control: The MREs undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure they meet military standards.
MRE Components
MREs typically consist of a main course, side dishes, and accessories. Some common components include:
- Main Course: The main course is the central component of the MRE, and can include items such as:
- Entrees (e.g. beef stew, chicken fajitas)
- Soups (e.g. chicken noodle, vegetable soup)
- Dried fruit and nuts
- Side Dishes: Side dishes can include items such as:
- Bread
- Crackers
- Canned vegetables
- Dried fruit
- Accessories: Accessories can include items such as:
- Condiments (e.g. ketchup, mustard)
- Utensils (e.g. spoon, fork)
- Napkins
- Coffee or tea packets
MREs in Action
MREs have been used in a range of military operations, including:
- Desert Storm: MREs were used extensively during the Gulf War, providing soldiers with a convenient and nutritious meal in the field.
- Afghanistan: MREs have been used in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, providing soldiers with a vital source of sustenance in the harsh Afghan environment.
- Iraq: MREs have been used in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing soldiers with a reliable source of food in the midst of combat operations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the production of MREs for the military is a complex process that involves a range of contractors and suppliers. From menu planning to packaging, the production of MREs requires careful attention to detail and a focus on quality control. While MREs may not be the most exciting topic, they play a critical role in supporting military operations and providing soldiers with the sustenance they need to perform their duties effectively.