If messing with mre stuff keep in mind what all usually comes in the "complete" mre packet vs. buying the entrees and just the stuff you want.



With halloween coming the candy will soon be discounted and you can do your own desert stuff cheap depending on what you buy and how often you have to "sample" it to make sure it is still good.



I rather like the mre spoons, with all the mre talk someone cut me a deal on some current ones to play with, and actually consider them better than some of the plastic wear I have bought in the past for use when camping or people are visiting outside and we are going to be eating outside.



The mre pouch is a sealed complete thing and you have no effort in making it.



But depending on your tastes some stuff is wasted or would be traded to others.



Can save a lot of money playing around just buying the pieces and as nice as it is to have a warm meal the mre stuff is fully cooked and ready to go as is.



I do agree they don't keep indefinately, but some of the current stuff is not that bad.



Overall I think it comes down to storing stuff you are willing to deal with and eat.



It rather sucks to be going through canned goods and find the pop tops have what looks like a tiny leak or the rust from moisture mentioned above.



Heck, even current spam cans seem a bit thinner than I remember.

What showpare says.  Good advice here.  This same advice was given to me many years ago.  I followed it, and it has served me well.  With the kids now gone and on their own, my long term food storage has essentially doubled!

Edited to correct some spelling.