Thank you for your purchase and for your interest in learning more about our safety protocols. Your trust means everything to us, and we’re committed to ensuring your products are safe, authentic, and properly inspected.

What Are Inspection Dates?

Inspection dates serve as benchmarks for when your MREs should be re-evaluated for quality. This is not an expiration date. With proper storage, MREs can be inspected and recertified every 18–24 months, for up to 10 years after manufacturing. Nutritional value may begin to degrade after 20 years.

What Are Manufacturing Dates?

Includes product image with manufacturing date highlighted. This is the date the MREs were originally packed. It differs from both the inspection and expiration date. Note: MREs technically do not have expiration dates.

What Are Extension Dates?

Extension dates are assigned after third-party or federal testing confirms MREs are still safe to consume.

There are two kinds:

• Federal Extensions (typically valid for 6 months)
• Private Extensions (our tests are more comprehensive and longer-lasting)

What Does the Orange Sticker Mean?

This is a Time Temperature Indicator (TTI). If the center of the sticker turns black or dark gray, it means the product was likely exposed to excessive heat or direct sunlight. This does not mean the MRE is unsafe—just that an inspection is needed.

To self-inspect: open 6–12 meals from the case and check for moisture, odors, dirt, bugs, or signs of spoilage. If none are present, your MREs are likely fine—the TTI was just light-exposed.

How Should I Store My MREs?

Store MREs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ideal storage temperature is under 80°F (27°C). Avoid damp areas or anywhere with temperature swings.

Can I Still Eat This If the TTI Sticker Is Black?

Yes, but an inspection should be performed immediately before consuming.

What Are the Menu Options?

Each MRE case contains a variety of meals—view full lists and calorie breakdowns here.

Check Your Package Lot Number





What’s the Difference Between Our Extension Tests and the Federal Government’s?

Federal tests are limited and short-term—usually 6 months—to save money.

Our process is more rigorous, including:
Larger sample sizes
Real taste testing
Moisture and infestation checks
Environmental condition reviews

We offer documentation and peace of mind that your food supply is truly safe.

Inspection Standards Comparison

Why our inspection standards go beyond federal guidelines.

Criteria Us Government
Visual Meal Check ✓ Larger batch inspections with multiple units opened and reviewed ✗ Spot-checks by lot, minimal sampling
Temperature History Review ✓ Cross-verified with actual warehouse storage logs for temperature control and opened and verified condition ✗ Relies on TTI sticker color as a proxy for heat exposure
TTI Sticker Evaluation ✓ Combined with odor, moisture, corrosion, and taste checks for deeper accuracy ✗ Pass/fail based only on sticker appearance
Shelf-Life Re-certification ✓ Detailed lot tracking, physical testing, and new certification labels ✗ Basic paperwork extension, often only 6 months
Customer Support Follow-Up ✓ Personalized support with a response time typically under 24 hours ✗ None provided

We apply private-sector expertise to government-grade products, because we believe safety and quality should never be compromised.

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