MRE may be consumed as the sole ration for up to how many days?

Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) is designed to be a convenient and nutritionally complete food option for military personnel in the field. The guidelines state that MREs can be consumed as the sole ration for up to 21 days. This duration takes into account the need for balanced nutrition and energy for individuals engaged in demanding physical activities typical of military operations.

While MREs provide necessary caloric intake, consuming them beyond the recommended period may lead to nutritional deficiencies, as they are designed for short-term sustenance under specific conditions. Therefore, the 21-day guideline is crucial to ensure personnel receive adequate nutrition when relying solely on these rations during missions.