A "Meal, Ready-to-Eat" (MRE) is a self-contained, individual meal designed for convenience and portability. Originally developed for military use, MREs are packaged to withstand various environmental conditions and have a long shelf life. Each meal typically includes an entrée, side dish, dessert, and accessories like utensils and napkins. MREs are popular not only among military personnel but also for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. They require minimal preparation, often just needing hot water or can be eaten straight from the package. This makes them a practical choice for emergency preparedness and situations where cooking facilities are unavailable.