What's the Difference Between MREs and Freeze Dried & Dehydrated Foods?
Here at TheEpicenter.com we are often asked about the difference between MRE Meals Ready to Eat and Mountain House Freeze Dried/Dehydrated foods. We'll do our best to answer those questions!
Features of MREs Ready to Eat and the Best Freeze Dried & Dehydrated Foods
The following chart identifies some of the basic differences and comparisons between MREs and Freeze Dried & Dehydrated Foods, including Shelf Life, Preparation, and Storage Requirements:
| Feature | MREs Ready to Eat |
Mountain House Cans |
Mountain House Pouches |
Peak Refuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shelf Life [1] | 5-7 years (on average) |
30+ years | 30+ years [2] |
5+ years [5] |
| Cooking Required? | No (ready to eat) |
No* (fully cooked) |
No (fully cooked) |
No (fully cooked) |
| Preparation Requirements | None required | Hot, Boiling Water [3] |
Hot, Boiling Water [3] |
Hot, Boiling Water [3] |
| Storage Requirements [4] |
Low temperatures, above freezing (70°F or less) |
Low temperatures, dry conditions w/ low humidity (72°F or less) |
Low temperatures, above freezing 72° or less) |
No stated storage requirements |
[1] The shelf life of all food is dependent upon storage temperature and conditions. Higher temperatures will decrease shelf life, while lower temperatures can extend shelf life.
[2] 30+ year shelf life for pouches except the ice creams and cheesecake pouches which have a 2-year shelf life, and #10 cans.
[3] Clean, drinkable water is required. Hot, boiling water is recommended although cold water can be used (longer rehydration time). Some items require COLD water to reconstitute (i.e., Granola with Blueberries & Milk). Preparation directions are on the product labels.
[4] Always store the product per manufacturer recommendations.
[5] Currently, all Peak Refuel meals are labeled with a 5-year shelf life. However, being 100% fully freeze dried and having the same packaging process as others that claim a 25+ year shelf life, Peak Refuel products should store much longer than the current 5 year stated shelf life. Being a young company, only 4 years in business, Peak Refuel has not been able to do the testing to claim the 25+ year shelf life...yet...but plan to as they get older as a company.
* There are a few Mountain House products that DO require cooking before consumption: Pork Chops or Pork Loin Pieces (these have been discontinued by the manufacturer and are no longer available).
Summary Overview: MREs vs Mountain House and Peak Refuel
-
MREs are "ready to eat" — hot or cold. No preparation or water is required for consumption. MRE’s are perfect for any emergency situation or outdoor activity, and are a good source of calories and nutrition for a great tasting meal. Heating is optional (see MRE Heating Methods).
Available in full meals (cases) or as individual items. MREs can withstand rough handling, and generally have a shelf life of 5 to 7 years when stored at or below 70 degrees F; and 10 years or longer when stored at cooler temperatures. - Mountain House foods are 100% freeze-dried and are easy to prepare—just add hot water, wait about 10-12 minutes, and eat! If a heat source is not available, room temperature or cold water can be used, too. Because no cooking is needed, these foods require much less water and fuel than most fresh, frozen or dehydrated foods (further conserving these two precious commodities). Mountain House products are available in #10 cans and pouches. Shelf life estimates are based on recommended storage temperatures. The manufacturer recommends using all opened product within two weeks or less, using the resealable lid/seal between uses.
- Peak Refuel offers hand-crafted, chef inspired meals using only premium ingredients and 100% real meat (no fillers or TVP in meat entrees. Through their proprietary cooking and freeze drying process they are able to deliver a home cooked meal experience that will be ready in a matter of minutes. Peak Refuel meals taste just like a home cooked meal due to their unique process of cooking and preparing the meals before they are freeze dried. All you need is to add water! Peak Refuel meals are: 100% Freeze-Dried, High Protein with No TVP or Meat Fillers, quick and easy to prepare - just add water (prepare in the pouch), also made in the USA, and have received extremely positive reviews from customers.