Troops to Enjoy Buffalo Chicken, Thai Curry in 2026 MREs

New meal options are set to enhance the U.S. military’s Meals Ready-to-Eat (MRE) lineup in 2026 with the introduction of dishes like buffalo chicken, Cuban-style beef picadillo, and Thai-style red curry with chicken and rice. This latest version, known as MRE 46, will replace less popular items such as beef taco filling, pork sausage patties, and jalapeno pepper jack beef patties, which received low ratings from service members.

The Combat Feeding Division, based in Natick, Massachusetts, oversees the development of the MRE menu. According to Julie Edwards, a senior technologist and registered dietitian within the division, the introduction of buffalo chicken is a direct response to soldier feedback. “Buffalo chicken is something that [soldiers] have requested. It’s a popular item… so we’re hoping that this item will be longstanding,” she stated in a U.S. Army release.

New Additions and Changes to MREs

The new MRE options must adhere to strict shelf life requirements, including a minimum of six months at 100 degrees Fahrenheit and three years at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The Combat Feeding Division works closely with troops to gather feedback on meal preferences, ensuring that the new offerings reflect their tastes. Behavioral psychologists also conduct focus groups to analyze this feedback, which is then presented to the Joint Services Operational Rations Forum for approval.

The process of updating the MRE menu typically spans four years. Edwards emphasized the importance of variety in meals to enhance acceptability among troops. “Any new item that we get that can help bring variety and increase acceptability is important,” she said. “We know that eating an MRE isn’t everyone’s No. 1 thing, but we want to make it safe to eat — that’s our No. 1 priority — and then to make it taste good as well.”

The upcoming MRE 46 will also feature a s’mores recovery bar and freeze-dried chocolate peanut butter bites, both designed to be high in protein. Edwards noted the challenges of sourcing protein-rich products that meet shelf life standards. “I know in the commercial sector, you see lots of beef jerky that’s shelf stable. However, it has a very short commercial shelf life,” she explained.

Another significant change in MRE 46 involves the introduction of alternative caffeinated products. Traditional coffee is losing popularity among newer generations of soldiers. In response, researchers are developing various caffeinated beverages, energy chews, gels, caffeinated gum, and even caffeinated jellybeans. “What we’ve noticed is caffeine is one of the least consumed items in the MRE,” Edwards said.

Looking Ahead: MRE 47 and Future Innovations

In addition to the new meal options, troops have requested larger, more durable towelettes. The next iteration of MREs, known as MRE 47, is already in development and is expected to be released in 2027. This future menu will focus more on plant-based items, a request made by service members. The Combat Feeding Division is working on several new offerings, including plant-based animal crackers, a new recovery bar, a protein bar, and a fruit-flavored cereal. Edwards confirmed that the four vegetarian meals currently available will be replaced with other plant-based entrees.

With these upcoming changes, the U.S. military aims to enhance the dining experience for troops while ensuring that meals are nutritious, safe, and appealing. The ongoing collaboration between researchers, chefs, and service members is critical in shaping the future of military rations.