Freeze Dry.....how much is too much?

[actionshooter]

 
 I got kind of got excited when atfulldraw posted that Fred Meyer had the Mountain House meals on sale. Then I started thinking, how much is too much? Its not going to go bad, but I'm starting to feel like a prepper. 
 Anybody have some REALLY old freeze dry? I mean 20 years old.........is it still good?

[Shawn Ryan]

The oldest I have is probably 5-6 years old. And I'm not even close to the Prepper that you are! That is a supply.  Any particular event that you are prepping for?  Mega solar flare is my current guess for a need... we are entering the high point of the 13-year flare cycle.  But I don't prep.

[carpsniperg2]

Now that is a pile of food

[dreamingbig]

They put best buy dates on the MH meals.

[brocka]

I think MH has a 7 year shelf life.

[atfulldraw]

I think MH has a 7 year shelf life.

I thought they were good for 25 years.

[dreamingbig]

From their website:

"Pouches--7 Year Shelf Life *
Based on storage studies over several years, in 2006 the shelf life was increased by an impressive 40%, from 5 years to 7 years! That’s right -- our shelf life is at least 7 years from the date of manufacture as long as the pouch is stored unopened in a cool area. After 7 years a change in flavor and appearance may be noticed. For best results, avoid prolonged storage at temperatures above 75° F (24° C)."

[brocka]

From their website:

"Pouches--7 Year Shelf Life *
Based on storage studies over several years, in 2006 the shelf life was increased by an impressive 40%, from 5 years to 7 years! That’s right -- our shelf life is at least 7 years from the date of manufacture as long as the pouch is stored unopened in a cool area. After 7 years a change in flavor and appearance may be noticed. For best results, avoid prolonged storage at temperatures above 75° F (24° C)."

Yep, That is what I read.

[actionshooter]

I've seen the 7 year shelf life and wondered if was really accurate. I had heard (rumor) that  they put the 7 year shelf life on because the FDA requires an experation date on all food. 

I'm not prepping for anything, I'm just a sucker for a good deal.  I know a guy who knows a guy and I bought that supply for 60% off of retail. 
 I figure I'm good for 6-8 years of backcountry cookin...................just a little worried if it will last that long.
 And if the economy goes the way of Greece, I  have about 2 months of food for the family. 

[bassquatch]

With that amount you could LIVE in the woods for 7 years before you would need more!!