In the news, we hear about many natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods. During these disasters, many people are often without electricity or may have to leave their homes. Without electricity, they do not have refrigeration or the ability to cook their food. Those who provide aid to victims of these disasters often use a product that originally came from the military as MREs or Meal, Ready-to-Eat.
MREs use a flameless heater to warm the food, relying on the oxidation of a metal to produce heat. The metal used is magnesium dust, which is mixed with salt and a small amount of iron dust. When water is added to this mixture, it heats up, and the water quickly reaches its boiling point. The heat generated is used to cook the food.
Question
Why would MREs be an advantage in many situations, both military and civilian?
In both the civilian world after a disaster and in the military, people may not have the ability to cook their food using a stove or even a fire. MREs allow them to have a hot, nutritious meal.
