As our modern lifestyles evolve, the demand for efficient and long-lasting food preservation methods is growing. In recent years, using freeze dryers has emerged as a popular solution, but the question remains: is it worth the investment?

Freeze drying is a process that involves removing moisture from food or other materials to preserve them for extended periods. This method has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its ability to preserve food without preservatives or chemicals. However, before you purchase a freeze dryer, you should know a few things.

In this article, we’ll discuss what a freeze dryer is, how it works, the pros and cons of owning one, and ultimately, whether or not they’re worth the investment. So, let’s get started!

What is a freeze dryer?

A freeze dryer, also known as a lyophilizer, is a device that removes moisture from materials by freezing them and then subjecting them to a vacuum. This process is called sublimation, and it involves the direct transition of water from a solid state (ice) to a gaseous state (water vapour) without passing through the liquid form. The freeze dryer lowers the pressure inside a chamber, causing any ice crystals in the material to vaporize and be collected by a condenser.

How does a freeze-dryer work?

The freeze-drying process can be broken down into three stages: freezing, primary drying, and secondary drying.

In the first stage, the material to be freeze-dried is placed in the freeze dryer and frozen to a temperature below its melting point. This is typically done in a separate freezer unit, as the freeze dryer itself is not capable of freezing the material.

The second stage is primary drying, during which the pressure in the chamber is lowered, and heat is applied to the frozen material. This causes the ice crystals to vaporize and be removed from the material, leaving behind a dry, porous structure. The process is slow and can take several hours to a few days, depending on the material being dried.

The final stage is secondary drying, during which the remaining moisture in the material is removed by raising the temperature and lowering the pressure even further. This step is crucial for ensuring the material remains stable and doesn’t spoil over time.

Now that you know how a freeze dryer works, let’s discuss the pros and cons of owning one.

Pros of owning a freeze dryer

• Preserves food without preservatives: One of the biggest benefits of owning a freeze dryer is that it allows you to preserve food without preservatives or chemicals. This is particularly important for those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions.
• Increases shelf life: Freeze-dried food can last for years without spoiling, making it an ideal choice for those who want to stock up on emergency supplies or enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables year-round.
• Retains nutritional value: Freeze-drying preserves the nutritional value of food better than other preservation methods, such as canning or dehydrating.
• Can save money: If you have access to fresh produce in bulk or a garden, and are planning to preserve a lot of food, owning a freeze dryer can save you money in the long run by allowing you to preserve your food instead of purchasing pre-packaged freeze-dried meals. This is generally only the case if you are storing a lot of food or go through your supplies regularly.
• Diverse applications: Freeze dryers can also be used to preserve a variety of non-food materials, such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and biological samples.

Cons of owning a freeze dryer

• Expensive upfront cost: Freeze dryers can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars (see economics section below).
• Requires space: Freeze dryers are large, bulky machines that require a significant amount of space to operate. 
• Requires maintenance: Like any complex piece of machinery, freeze dryers require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure they operate correctly.
• Time-consuming: The freeze-drying process can take several hours to a few days, which can be a downside for those looking for a quick and easy preservation method.
• Not for everyone: Unless you’re planning to do a lot of freeze-drying or are going through your supplies regularly, it is more worthwhile to purchase freeze-dried food from professionals rather than investing in your own freeze-dryer (see our concluding thoughts below).

The economics of owning a freeze dryer

One of the main factors to consider when deciding whether to invest in a freeze-dryer is the financial cost. Freeze dryers can be quite expensive, ranging from a few thousand dollars for a small home unit to tens of thousands for a larger commercial unit. Here are some of the financial considerations to keep in mind:

The upfront cost for home use can range from $2,000 to $5,000. Commercial-grade freeze dryers can cost upwards of $20,000 or more. Additional costs may be associated with installing the unit, such as electrical or plumbing work.

In addition to the upfront cost, owning a freeze dryer also comes with ongoing expenses. These may include:

• Energy costs: Freeze dryers can be energy-intensive, particularly during the freezing and drying cycles. Depending on your electricity rates, you may see an increase in your monthly energy bills.
• Maintenance costs: Like any machinery, freeze dryers require regular maintenance to keep them in good working order. This may include replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, and replacing worn or damaged components. Depending on the unit, these costs can add up over time.
• Supplies: Depending on the unit, you may need to purchase additional supplies, such as vacuum pump oil or replacement trays. These costs can add up over time.

While the upfront and ongoing costs of owning a freeze dryer can be significant, there are also potential cost savings. Here are some of the ways that owning a freeze dryer can save you money:

• Reduced food waste: With a freeze dryer, you can preserve and store food for longer periods of time, reducing the amount of food that goes to waste. This can save you money on groceries in the long run.
• Bulk purchasing: If you have access to bulk purchasing options, such as through a food co-op or farm share program, owning a freeze dryer can help you take advantage of these deals by allowing you to store and preserve larger quantities of food.

Conclusion

While owning a freeze dryer can offer benefits, it may not be the best choice for everyone. The reality is that freeze-drying is a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. Unless you are planning to do A LOT of freeze drying, it is more worthwhile to purchase freeze-dried food from professionals to save on time, money, and storage space. Professionals:

• have access to specialized equipment and expertise that may not be available to the average person. They can ensure that the freeze-drying process is done correctly, preserving the nutritional value and flavour of the food.
• have to pass rigorous standards so your food is safe for long term storage.
• do the hard work for you, saving your time and energy.
• Carry many varieties and options for your needs that are prepackaged, come with cooking instructions, and are ready to store. Options like: fruits and vegetables, meals, gluten free options, meat, cheese, eggs, and snacks.

Thank you for reading! If you have any questions, please let us know in the comments or reach out to us through hello@totalprepare.ca. We’re here to help!

Introduction

MREs, or Meals, Ready-to-Eat, are prepackaged meals that were originally designed for military personnel. They have a long shelf life, are lightweight, and are easy to transport, making them ideal for use in the field. However, in recent years, MREs have become increasingly popular with civilians as a convenient and portable meal option. In this article, we will explore whether it is possible to live on MREs, the nutritional content of MREs, their shelf life, and whether or not they can cause constipation.

Can You Live on MREs?

The short answer is yes, you can live on MREs. MREs are designed to provide all the necessary nutrients and calories for a full day’s worth of meals. However, it is important to note that MREs are not intended for long-term use. MREs are high in sodium and low in fiber and fatty-acids. It is not recommended to eat nothing but MREs for more than 21 days. Eating MREs for extended periods of time can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can affect your health.

It is also important to monitor your calorie intake when eating MREs. Depending on the type of MRE, they may contain up to 1,200 calories and 25-30 grams of protein. While this may be appropriate for some people, many people will need more than one MRE a day, depending on their individual nutritional needs. 

The Nutritional Content of MREs

MREs are designed to provide a complete meal, containing an entrée, side dish, crackers, a dessert, and a beverage powder. Each MRE contains around 1,200 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

The specific nutritional content of MREs can vary depending on the specific menu item. However, as a general rule, MREs are high in protein and carbohydrates, but low in fiber. They also tend to be high in sodium, which can cause dehydration and constipation if not properly balanced with adequate water intake.

Despite their lack of fiber, MREs contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. This makes them a good option for those who need a convenient, portable meal that still provides essential nutrients.

The Shelf Life of MREs

One of the key benefits of MREs is their long shelf life. MREs are designed to last for up to 5 years at a cool, dry temperature.

The long shelf life of MREs is due to a number of factors, including their packaging and the processing techniques used to create them. MREs are vacuum-sealed in durable packaging, which helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause food spoilage.

However, it is important to note that the quality and nutritional content of MREs can degrade after the 5 year shelf life or if stored in hot temperatures. As MREs age, the food may not be as palatable as it was when it was freshly made, and the nutritional content may decrease. It is also possible that the packaging of the MREs may become damaged over time, which can compromise the quality and safety of the food. This is why Total Prepare recommends replacing meals that are coming up to their 5 year life.

Can You Eat 30-Year-Old MREs?

As seen above, MREs have a remarkable shelf life, which is one of the reasons they are so popular among preppers and survivalists. However, it’s important to understand that MREs are not immune to degradation over time, and the quality and nutritional content of the meals can be affected by a range of factors such as storage conditions, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to sunlight and moisture.

While MREs could theoretically last for 30 years, the quality past the recommended shelf life of the meals can vary depending on a number of factors. MREs that have been stored in optimal conditions (i.e., cool, dry, and dark environments) are more likely to retain their quality and nutritional value over time than those that have been exposed to extreme heat, humidity, or light.

So, can you eat 30-year-old MREs? Probably, yes. If the MREs have been stored correctly and are still sealed in their original packaging, they are likely safe to eat. However, the quality and nutritional value of the meals may have degraded significantly, and they may not be very palatable or provide all the necessary nutrients you need to maintain a healthy diet. You do take on a risk when eating any food that is outside of its stated manufacturer’s shelf life, however, so this is not recommended by Total Prepare. That being said, many people have tried older MREs with no negative side effects.

Do MREs Cause Constipation?

It is a long held joke in military circles that MRE actually stands for “Meal, Refusing to Exit.” This is based on a long history of anecdotal evidence that a diet of MREs will cause constipation. In 2019, the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry conducted an experiment to confirm if MREs actually stopped up soldiers. They found that due to the lack of helpful bacteria found on fresh foods, MREs do cause constipation if they are the only thing you’re eating. This experiment happened over a 3 week period – the maximum recommended time to eat nothing but MREs.

Preparing MREs

Preparing MREs is straightforward and requires minimal effort. To get started, you will need to locate the packaging line on the MRE, which is typically marked with a dotted line. Using a knife or scissors, cut along the dotted line to open the package, or tear from both sides with your hands. Inside, you will find the various components of the MRE, including the entrée, side dish, crackers, dessert, and beverage powder.

To prepare the entrée you will need to place it, along with the chemical heating pad, in the provided heater sleeve. Next, add water to the heater sleeve up to the fill line, and then fold the top of the sleeve over to seal it. The chemical reaction between the water and the heating element in the sleeve will generate heat, which will cook the entrée in around 10-15 minutes.

Once the entrée is cooked, you can remove it from the heater sleeve and enjoy it immediately. The side dish, crackers, and dessert can be eaten as-is. A small amount of water is required to mix the beverage powder, and any included coffee or tea. 

Benefits of living on MREs

MREs offer several benefits over traditional food options, making them a popular choice among military personnel, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the benefits of MREs include:

1. Convenience: MREs are designed to be convenient and easy to use. They require no cooking or preparation, making them ideal for situations where access to cooking facilities is limited.
2. Portability: MREs are lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport. They take up minimal space and can be easily carried in a backpack or other gear.
3. Long shelf life: MREs have a long shelf life of up to 30 years, making them ideal for emergency preparedness kits and other long-term storage solutions.
4. Nutritional content: MREs are designed to provide all the necessary nutrients and calories for a full day’s worth of meals. They contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that help to provide a balanced meal.
5. Variety: MREs come in a variety of flavors and options, allowing you to choose the meals that best fit your preferences and dietary needs.

Drawbacks living on MREs

While MREs offer several benefits, they also have some drawbacks that are worth considering. Some of the drawbacks of MREs include:

1. High calorie content: MREs are designed to keep soldier’s going in the feild, which means they can be high in calories. If you’re not careful, eating too many MREs can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
2. Lack of variety: While MREs do come in a variety of flavors, they can still get boring after a while. Eating the same meals day after day can be unappetizing and can lead to a lack of enthusiasm for mealtimes.
3. Sodium content: MREs are high in sodium, which can lead to dehydration and other health problems if you’re not careful. It’s important to drink plenty of water when eating MREs to avoid these issues.
4. Lack of essential nutrients: While MREs are designed to provide a full day’s worth of meals, they are low in some essential nutrients such as fiber and essential fatty acids. Eating MREs for more than 3 weeks can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can affect your health.
5. Cost: MREs can be more expensive than traditional food options, which can make them cost-prohibitive for some people.

An MRE Infographic – click for PDF

Conclusion

In conclusion, while MREs can provide a convenient source of calories and nutrients, they are not without their potential health concerns. Individuals relying on MREs for prolonged periods may need to supplement their diets with additional sources of fiber, healthy fats, and protein. It is also important to balance MRE consumption with adequate water intake and to be mindful of the high sodium content and use of preservatives in these meals.