The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply Made a Bold First Impression
The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply promises peace of mind in a compact, affordable package. ReadyWise, a well-known name in the emergency preparedness market, aims to provide a basic, easily storable food supply for individuals or small families facing unexpected disruptions. This particular kit includes 12 servings of lunch/dinner entrees, 6 servings of breakfast entrees, and 12 servings of milk, offering a caloric foundation for a 72-hour period.
My interest in this product stemmed from my desire to create a readily accessible, no-fuss emergency kit for my family’s vehicles. I’ve built elaborate bug-out bags before, but I wanted something simpler and more streamlined for situations where we might be stranded due to weather or unforeseen events. Opening the box revealed individual pouches, neatly packed.
Compared to other emergency food options I’ve used – Mountain House pouches or bulk MREs – the ReadyWise kit prioritizes affordability and convenience over gourmet flavors. The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply differs in its focus on basic sustenance rather than complex nutritional profiles or specialized diets, unlike some freeze-dried options catering to specific dietary needs. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; the compact size and low price point were appealing, but the true test would be in the taste and practicality.
Real-World Testing: Putting ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply during a weekend camping trip, simulating a situation where access to regular food sources was limited. The campground provided a controlled environment to assess the food’s ease of preparation and palatability without real-world survival pressures.
Preparing the meals was straightforward, requiring only the addition of hot water. The Cheesy Macaroni and Teriyaki Rice rehydrated reasonably well, although some parts remained slightly crunchy even after the recommended soaking time.
The Brown Sugar and Maple Multi-Grain Cereal was surprisingly palatable, providing a decent start to the day. However, the Whey Milk tasted somewhat artificial and left a slightly chalky aftertaste. It was usable, but not enjoyable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply periodically over a few months, it has become clear that its strength lies in its shelf life and portability. The individual pouches remain sealed and intact, showing no signs of degradation, even after being stored in a hot garage.
However, the long-term palatability becomes a concern. While the food provides essential calories, relying solely on this kit for an extended period could become monotonous and psychologically challenging. Maintenance is minimal; the pouches are designed for single use and require no special cleaning.
Compared to prior experiences with higher-end freeze-dried meals, the ReadyWise kit falls short in terms of flavor and texture. However, considering the price point, it represents a reasonable compromise for basic emergency preparedness.
Breaking Down the Features of ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply
Specifications
- Contents: 1 pouch of Cheesy Macaroni (6 total servings), 1 pouch of Teriyaki Rice (6 total servings), 1 pouch of Brown Sugar and Maple Multi-Grain Cereal (6 Servings), 1 pouch of Whey Milk (12 servings). This breakdown determines the variety and sustenance available during an emergency.
- Servings: Total of 36 servings. This quantity dictates how many people the kit can sustain and for how long.
- Preparation: Requires only the addition of hot water. This simplicity makes it easy to prepare in various emergency situations, even without cooking equipment.
- Shelf Life: Up to 25 years (under optimal storage conditions). This extended shelf life minimizes the need for frequent replacements, making it a cost-effective emergency solution.
- Storage: Compact and easily storable. The box’s small footprint allows for convenient storage in vehicles, closets, or pantries.
The specifications matter because they directly affect the kit’s practicality and effectiveness. A long shelf life ensures it’s ready when needed, while simple preparation makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of cooking skills.
Performance & Functionality
The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply performs its basic function of providing sustenance adequately. The meals offer sufficient calories to maintain energy levels, although the nutritional content is not optimized for peak performance.
Strengths include its ease of preparation and long shelf life. The weaknesses are the limited flavor options and the less-than-ideal taste of the Whey Milk. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly emergency food supply, providing essential calories without culinary frills.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is basic, with the food stored in durable, resealable pouches. The kit is lightweight and easy to transport, making it suitable for inclusion in bug-out bags or vehicle emergency kits.
The system is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to prepare the meals. No learning curve is involved, enhancing its accessibility in stressful situations.
Durability & Maintenance
The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply is designed for long-term storage, with a projected shelf life of up to 25 years. The packaging protects the food from moisture and light, ensuring its longevity.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. The pouches are disposable, eliminating the need for cleaning or special storage procedures.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included with the ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply. Since the primary purpose is basic sustenance, customization options are limited.
The kit can be supplemented with additional items like canned goods, energy bars, or water purification tablets to enhance its nutritional value and overall preparedness. Adding a small bottle of hot sauce or spices can greatly improve the palatability of the meals.
Pros and Cons of ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply
Pros
- Long shelf life (up to 25 years) offers peace of mind.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
- Easy to prepare with just hot water.
- Lightweight and compact for easy storage and portability.
- Provides a basic caloric foundation for 72 hours.
Cons
- Limited flavor options can lead to monotony.
- Whey Milk has an artificial taste and chalky texture.
- Nutritional content is basic and not optimized for peak performance.
Who Should Buy ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply?
The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply is perfect for individuals or families seeking an affordable and easily storable emergency food solution. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Homeowners building a basic emergency preparedness kit.
- Apartment dwellers with limited storage space.
- Vehicle owners creating a roadside emergency kit.
This product may not be ideal for:
- Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Those seeking gourmet-quality emergency food.
- Those requiring a high-performance nutritional solution for strenuous activities.
A must-have accessory is a portable stove or heating device to boil water for meal preparation. Adding a water filter or purification tablets would also enhance the kit’s self-sufficiency.
Conclusion on ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply
The ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply offers a budget-friendly and convenient solution for basic emergency preparedness. While it may not be the most gourmet or nutritionally complete option on the market, its long shelf life, ease of preparation, and compact size make it a practical choice for many.
The price is certainly justified for the peace of mind it provides. I would personally recommend the ReadyWise 72 Hour Emergency Food Supply as a foundational element in any emergency preparedness plan.
Start building your emergency kit today and ensure you’re prepared for whatever tomorrow may bring!