Military rations, also known as MRE (Meal, Ready-to-Eat), are self-contained, ready-to-eat meals designed to meet the nutritional needs of soldiers on the battlefield or in emergency situations.

Throughout history, military rations have evolved to suit the needs of soldiers. In ancient times, soldiers carried with them staple foods such as bread, cheese, and dried meat. During the Napoleonic Wars, items such as canned meat, soldier biscuits, coffee, and sugar were introduced. During World War I and World War II, military rations were further improved, including canned goods, sausages, biscuits, chocolate, and instant soup bars.

At present, there are several types of military rations. Individual Combat Rations (RCI) are standard and provide complete and balanced meals with main courses, sides, desserts, snacks and beverages. Enhanced Combat Rations (RCMs) are improved versions of RCIs, with more food variety and vegetarian options. Emergency rations are compact and designed for crisis situations, including canned food, energy bars and bottled water. High energy rations are designed for situations of high physical activity and require a large amount of calories and nutrients. There are also survival rations, specialized and adapted to specific situations, such as operations in desert areas or underwater missions.

Military rations may also include disposable utensils, self-contained heaters to heat food, and other necessary accessories. As times progress, constant efforts are made to improve the quality, variety, and portability of rations, as well as to tailor them to the specific dietary needs of soldiers.

In short, military rations are prepared, ready-to-eat meals that have evolved throughout history to meet the nutritional needs of soldiers on the battlefield or in emergency situations. They provide a variety of balanced and compact foods, together with disposable utensils and accessories necessary for their consumption.

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