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Freeze-dried Meal

What is a freeze-dried meal?

A freeze-dried meal is a lightweight, shelf-stable food product where moisture has been removed through a freezing and sublimation process, commonly used by backpackers and campers. These meals retain most of their original nutritional value and flavor while weighing significantly less than fresh alternatives, making them ideal for multi-day hiking trips where weight and pack space are critical. To prepare, hikers simply add hot water to rehydrate the meal, which typically takes 5-15 minutes. Freeze-dried meals offer convenient, complete nutrition in the backcountry without requiring refrigeration or heavy cooking equipment.

Related Terms

Dehydrated Food

Dehydrated food is food that has had most of its water content removed through controlled drying processes, making it lightweight and shelf-stable for outdoor activities. Popular among backpackers and campers, dehydrated meals significantly reduce pack weight while providing nutritious, calorie-dense options that can be rehydrated with hot water at camp. These foods typically retain most of their nutritional value and can last for months or years when properly stored, making them ideal for extended wilderness trips where fresh food isn't practical.