There are two types of pre-packaged meals you might use while in BMT; the Meal Ready to Eat (MRE) and the Tailored Operational Training Meal (TOTM).
MREs are intended for use in the deployed environment, while TOTMs are used as an alternative operational training meal.
TOTMs are not an MRE, nor are they designed to take the place of the MRE. TOTMs are a training tool to aid units in gaining familiarity with the preparation, usage, consumption and disposal of pre-packaged meals used in a deployed environment
Both meals are completely self-contained and consists of a main entrée, wet-pack fruit, a beverage base, flameless heater, dining kit, and other assorted components. They provide a great way to get the optimum amount of nutrients and energy so you always remain fit while in the training and deployed environments.
However, some basic guidelines must be followed to ensure health and safety requirements are met.
Eating
Health risks may result from improper preparation and consumption. Ensure you sanitize your hands prior to preparing and consuming your meal. When mixing water with your beverage powder, do not use your water bottle, use the beverage bag (if provided).
Sugars and other components of the beverage powders could lead to bacteria growth in the water bottle and in emergency situations, water bottle water may be needed to flush debris from wounds or eyes.
Additionally, some beverage powders may contain caffeine. Caffeine is a diuretic that actually removes water from your system and is counterproductive to proper hydration.
To open, locate the peak at the top center of the removable seal, firmly grasp each side of the packet and pull. It is recommended that you prepare the main entrée first with the flameless heater and consume other elements of your meal while it heats.
Safety and Disposal
The flameless heater and by products are not intended for human consumption. Here are some safety points to remember when using and disposing of your heater:
- Vapors released by an activated heater contain hydrogen, a flammable gas; DO NOT place an open flame near these vapors
- When 10 or more heaters are used inside a shelter, ensure a door or window is open
- Hot water from the flameless heater can burn the skin and cause serious thermal burns. NEVER carry an activated heater in your uniform pocket
- Use caution when discarding the heater as the bag and water inside it may still be hot
- DO NOT drink the water remaining in the heater bag or use it in food items; IT IS TOXIC
- If you choose not to use your flameless heater, you must discharge it before disposing of it: unused heaters present a significant fire risk in trash receptacles. To discharge an unused heater, activate it then set it aside to cool
- Once you have finished eating, all trash (e.g., candy, gum and sugar packs) and any uneaten items must be thrown away. Do not save anything for later
- Conduct a sweep of the area to ensure no trash or pieces of food have been left lying on the ground
Allergies
Many of you may have food allergies or food preferences.
To help you make the best choices, avoid allergic reactions and meet your dietary preferences when selecting a meal, refer to the common food allergies listed in the Nutrition and Fitness Principles Chapter and inform your MTI of your specific dietary needs as soon as possible (e.g., vegetarian, Halal or Kosher).