The following is my opinion as a member participating in this discussion.
Why MRE's? The ones I've had tasted like butt and they're really expensive.
Well-stored grains, beans, powdered milk, honey, etc., will last longer and taste better.
I've heard some folks say that the newer MREs taste better, but I don't know if that's saying much...
Anyway, the only circumstances where I see MREs as an attractive option involve low-water environments, or a break-in period where you need to get a well going, something like that. Traditional foods require a lot more water to prepare, generally speaking. Much of it can be re-used for washing up, etc., but you still lose a fair bit.
So, if you plan on not stockpiling cooking fuel, and you have no access to windfall or a decent well, MREs might be a good idea. If you're planning on bugging out or holing up someplace hospitable, why bother with overpriced MREs, when good 'ol rice and beans and wheat and so forth will do the trick?
Just my $.02
As an ATS Staff Member, I will not moderate in threads such as this where I have participated as a member.
