A Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) is a self-contained, individual field ration in lightweight packaging purchased by the United States Department of Defense for its service members for use in combat or field conditions where other food is not available.

General contents may include:

• Main course (often referred to as "the main")
• Side dish
• Dessert or snack (often commercial candy, fortified pastry, first strike bar, or Soldier Fuel Bar.)
• Crackers or bread
• Spread of cheese, peanut butter, or jelly
• Powdered beverage mix: fruit flavored drink, cocoa, instant coffee or tea, sport drink, or dairy shake.
• Utensils (in rare occasions, a full set is included – with a spoon, fork and knife – but most commonly only a plastic spoon is given)
• Flameless ration heater (FRH)
• Beverage mixing bag
• Accessory pack:

- Xylitol chewing gum
- Water-resistant matchbook
- Napkin / toilet paper
- Moist towelette
- Seasonings, including salt, pepper, sugar, creamer, and/or Tabasco sauce
- Freeze dried coffee powder