I like them for the most part. They’ve come a long way in the last couple decades as well. Nice varieties, nice accoutrements, and enough calories for the most part. I think they’re great for a temporary situation where a decent full meal is in order in the field, without all the mess of cooking, let alone time involved. I’ve chosen an MRE over “local” food on more than a few occasions. And I’m far from a picky eater, I’m open to all kinds of food. We take them on short ATV excursions regularly.
I’ve run into gut issues/serious constipation for any longer than a week on a diet of straight MRE’s. Granted, I haven’t done that for some time now, thankfully.
They’re not organic or probably even close and are loaded with preservatives I’m sure.
And finally the price per MRE can be quite high compared to a homemade meal.
I’ve never heard about not needing potable water. I’ve never come across any like that either and I would question any(one) that made that kind of claim. In fact I would say the cleaner the water the better.
My all time favorite is the shakes. They came out with them years ago, then recalled them, then re-introduced them, then? I’m not sure where they are with that currently. I bet those shakes are poison, but… hey whad’ya gonna do when it’s hot out.