US Army Expands Plant-Based MREs by 2027 to Strengthen Supply Chains
The US Army is stepping up efforts to introduce more plant-based meals for soldiers. A 2022 survey revealed strong demand, with 81% of active-duty personnel wanting better plant-based options and 69% supporting plant-based MREs. The move aims to improve supply chain resilience rather than cater to dietary trends. The Army currently distributes over 37 million Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs) each year. By 2027, it plans to replace four vegetarian meals in MRE 47 with fully plant-based alternatives. This shift follows feedback from service members and aligns with broader efforts to modernise field rations.
The Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center is now seeking partnerships with industry and academia. Their focus is on plant-based and fermentation-derived proteins, excluding cultivated meat and insect protein. The exclusion of cultivated meat comes after opposition from livestock industry groups.
Logistics and supply chain stability are driving the change. The Army wants to enable biomanufacturing of food in combat zones and ensure high-quality nutrition for troops. If successful, this initiative could also boost confidence in plant-based proteins among other large-scale buyers. The Army’s push for alternative proteins reflects both soldier demand and operational needs. With four plant-based MREs set for 2027, the programme could influence wider adoption of these foods. Success will depend on suppliers meeting strict military standards for quality and performance.
