The host reviews a 33-year-old MRE (Meal, Ready-to-Eat) menu number 2, which features ham and chicken loaf, crackers, pears, coffee, creamer, sugar, salt, chewing gum, matches, and toilet paper. The MRE was stored in a climate-controlled environment and is in surprisingly good condition. The host tries the different components, including the ham and chicken loaf, which he finds to be a decent breakfast item, but only when heated. He also tries the pears, crackers, and pineapple nut cake, which he declares to be the star of the menu. Overall, the host is impressed with the quality of the MRE and finds it to be a unique and enjoyable experience.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The MRE (Meal, Ready-to-Eat) being reviewed is Menu #2, Ham and Chicken Loaf, from 1984.
2. The MRE was stored in a climate-controlled environment for 33 years.
3. The MRE contained crackers, pears, ham and chicken loaf, peanut butter, pineapple nut cake, coffee, creamer, sugar, salt, chewing gum, and toilet paper.
4. The MRE was packaged with an accessory packet containing matches, a spoon, and other miscellaneous items.
5. The ham and chicken loaf was produced from 1981 to 1987.
6. The MRE was replaced with corned beef hash in 1987-88.
7. The first generation of MREs was produced from 1981 to 1985 with no changes to the menu.
8. The MRE contains 1,300 calories.
9. The freeze-dried fruit, including pears, was discontinued in 1994.
10. The peanut butter in MREs is fortified with vitamins, including 80% of the daily value of vitamin C.
11. The pineapple nut cake has a unique texture and flavor, with a high amount of shortening.
12. The crackers in the MRE are salted, which is no longer the case in modern MREs.
13. The MRE contains a flameless ration heater, which was introduced in 1993.
14. The reviewer notes that the MRE is surprisingly edible and enjoyable, despite being 33 years old.