HeaterMeals The Self-Heating Meal

Healthy Options for Healthcare

2012-01-24T13:58:00.000-08:00

Since 2000, HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals have been serving the health care industry during times of emergency with tasty, nutritious, hot meals. Our shelf-stable, self-heating entrees are not only a convenience, though. They also provide the ideal solution for meeting The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health care Organizations (JCAHO) EM Standards.

In addition, Emergency Management Continuity Of Operation (COOP) Plans require health care organizations to have 96 hours worth of food on hand to sustain personnel during an emergency. Storing HeaterMeals EX Self-Heating Entrees, with up to a 5 year shelf-life based on the production date, can fill that requirement, as well.

NUTRITION:

HeaterMeals contain food that not only tastes good, but is good for you, as well. Our food is a healthier, tastier choice over other emergency meals. Our entrees feature:

No Trans Fats
Higher levels of Protein and Fiber,
Less Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium.

In addition, our menu selections make HeaterMeals a viable emergency feeding option for a wide range of ages and dietary needs. Our meal selections include:

3 Chicken Varieties,
2 Beef Choices,
1 Vegetarian Entree.

HeaterMeals EX includes our patented self-heating technology to heat the meal in minutes. In addition, all HeaterMeals EX Self-Heating Entrees come with everything needed to “Enjoy a Hot Meal Anytime, Anyplace,” including a spoon, napkin, seasonings and a serving tray.

LONG SHELF-LIFE & CONVENIENT STORAGE

Designed for EXtended storage, our HeaterMeals EX line has a shelf-life of up to five years, based on the production date. They store without the need for refrigeration. We achieve this extended storage through advanced packaging. There are no chemical preservatives added to our entrees.

Storage is simple and minimal, as well. Two Pallets of HeaterMeals EX contain 1440 meals. The pallets are stack-able, reaching a height of 100 inches and the footprint is only 40 x 48 inches. This means a large number of meals can be stored without taking up a large space.   

THE RIGHT CHOICE

When faced with tightening budgets, and complying with JCAHO EM Standards, a health care organization must make the right choice.

HeaterMeals offer that choice with our patented self-heating technology, nutritional value that tastes great, extended shelf-life, and a minimal storage footprint...all for around $4 per meal.

When one considers the benefits next to the costs, it becomes clear that HeaterMeals is the ideal choice for meeting JCAHO requirements and COOP 96 Hour Plans.

Holiday Thoughts

2011-12-13T06:21:00.000-08:00

As we move through the holiday season, it’s important to remember the importance and significance of the season. It is a time to celebrate life, and acknowledge the light of goodness in the world. This short period of the year reminds us that we are all brothers, that there is goodness in the world that we should all foster, and that there is more that binds us together, than separates us.

It is that spirit of goodness that prompts many to support charitable institutions, especially at this time of year. Being in the Emergency Response business, HeaterMeals has, on many occasions, worked with charitable and relief organizations that provide food and aid to those affected by a disaster. In May of this year we had the opportunity to partner with a charity dedicated to ending hunger.

Feeding America is an organization that has dedicated itself, “to feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger.” In the aftermath of the May tornadoes that struck Alabama, we saw Feeding America in action. Their ability to mobilize people and resources to provide food in the days after that disaster was impressive. We were honored to help, but were one company of many who supplied food, water and personal items to the many areas devastated by those tornadoes. All of that aid, to all of those areas, was coordinated quickly and efficiently through Feeding America. Their ability to successfully achieve that task is a testament to their people’s professionalism and dedication.

There are many charities performing similar roles: the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, and your local food bank, just to name a few. They operate with small staffs and on tight budgets. With the recent economic downturn, their budgets have grown even tighter. Yet they somehow are able to supply aid and vital services. The people in these organizations aren’t in for the money. Instead, they’re motivated by the deeper satisfaction of helping those in need.

During this time of year, when we recognize goodness in the world, please remember these organizations and the people in them. The ideals for which they are dedicated are directly tied with the ideas of this holiday season: celebrating life, and promoting good in the world.

Bob Turner

HeaterMeals

How We Respond in an Emergency

2011-11-18T10:13:00.000-08:00

A disaster or crisis can occur at any moment. Thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes and blizzards can happen at inconvenient times, and never when we’re ready for them. Emergencies don’t keep 9 to 5 hours, and because of that fact, either do we.

For nearly 15 years, HeaterMeals has been there, ready to help when FEMA, the American Red Cross, the World Food Programme, state and county Emergency Management Agencies and local first responders called. It didn’t matter what time it was, or what day it was. We’ve been ready to help on 24/7 basis since 1997, and we’ll continue to be there when called in the future.

Our staff is highly trained. We know how to react during a crisis to ensure you get the product you need, when and where you need it. When disaster strikes, our team goes to work.

It might start with a late-night phone call to one of our 24/7 emergency contact numbers. When you call, you’ll speak to a real person, or get a response to your call within minutes. If you have an urgent need, we’ll work to arrange your shipment right then and there.

During prolonged emergency response periods that might last days, our team works around the clock. We take great pride in the fact that we’re helping those affected by that disaster. Emergency response orders take precedence, and we work to expedite these orders in an efficient manner.

Our entire company remains on call during an emergency. From front office staff to the production and warehouse team, our people are on the job to help. We don’t return to our normal schedule, until the last truck leaves our facility with the last order.

At HeaterMeals, we’re in the emergency response business. Sometimes that means late-night calls, and usually it means long hours. But it’s what we do. And we’re good at it!

Our Record of Emergency Service

2011-09-29T06:02:00.000-07:00

When HeaterMeals was first developed, there were no other emergency meals. We were the first shelf-stable, self-heating meal. Our record of service to the emergency response sector goes back to 1997, and is extensive.

Through the years, we have answered the call from the World Food Programme, FEMA, the American Red Cross, Feeding America, active and reserve military units, and state and county emergency management agencies and local first responders. We’re known for our 24/7 capabilities during emergencies, especially our ability to get meals to where they’re needed quickly and efficiently.

Below is a list of natural disasters* dating back to 1997. In each, HeaterMeals stepped up and moved our inventory quickly to impacted areas, helping first responders and those affected by the disaster.

We’re proud of our record of service, and will continue to be there when we’re needed.

Spring Floods 1997

We first provided meals when the Ohio and Mississippi rivers flooded in March of that year. In 2 days, between 6 and 12 inches of rain fell on SW Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Water levels on the Ohio River were the highest in over 30 years. This flooding affected six states, 14,000 homes, and damage estimates were in excess of $500 million. 33 People lost their lives.

Hurricanes Georges and Mitch

In 1998, Category 4 Hurricane Georges struck Key West on September 25, and landed on Biloxi, Mississippi on September 28. Georges was the fourth hurricane of that season. It was the most destructive storm since Hurricane Andrew in 1992, causing $6 billion in damages, and killing 604 people.

About a month later Hurricane Mitch grew to a Category 5 storm, but eventually weakened to a tropical storm as it moved into Florida. It brought with it a storm surge of up to four feet in the Florida Keys, and spawned tornadoes that finished off damaged buildings from Georges. Mitch was the most powerful storm of the 1998 season, and the fourth strongest on record in the Caribbean.

1999 Cincinnati Tornado

In April of 1999, a killer tornado ripped through our hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. It brought winds of 260 mph when it touched down in a suburban neighborhood in the pre-dawn hours. Four people lost their lives, and 47 were injured. Nearly 200 homes were destroyed and about 200,000 people were without power. Some 15,000 remained in the dark throughout the weekend.

Hurricane Floyd

Hurricane Floyd in September 1999 triggered the largest evacuation in US history when 2.6 million residents in five states were ordered to leave. The storm had reached Category 4 strength, hastening the evacuation, but weakened to a Category 2 when it finally landed in North Carolina. It continued to travel up the coast into New England, causing damage and flooding along the way. Nearly every river basin in the eastern US surpassed 500-year flooding levels. Floyd caused the deaths of 57 people, and wrought $4.5 billion in damages.

December 2000 Arkansas Ice Storm
A major long-term ice storm developed on Christmas Day 2000 in Arkansas. Cold air had moved in from the north, as warm moist air had blown up from the south resulting in the icy conditions. The storm continued for two days producing severe freezing rain. In some areas of the state ice layers were reported to be 3 inches thick. 300,000 residents were without power for days. With power out, some cities were unable to pump water, and the governor even had to communicate with affected areas by HAM radio. This storm, coupled with one that occurred two weeks earlier, are considered to be the worst natural disaster events in Arkansas history.

Tropical Storm Allison

Allison hit the Texas coastline in June 2001. It was an unusually long storm, lasting 15 days. It dropped over 40 inches of rain in Texas alone, causing severe flooding. In Texas, and along its entire path, 41 people lost their lives, and Allison caused $5.5 billion in damages. Allison was such a significant event, that it is the only tropical storm to have its name retired without ever becoming a hurricane.

9/11

On the clear, beautiful morning of September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four passenger jets. They flew two into both World Trade Center towers in New York City, causing their collapse. The third jet was flown into the Pentagon. On the fourth jet passengers fought back against the hijackers, resulting in the plane crashing into the ground near Shanksville, PA. Power outages and transportation disruptions resulted from the collapse of the towers for days afterwards. Two thousand, seventy people lost their lives as a result of the attacks.

Hurricane Lili

In the 2002 hurricane season, Lili became the costliest, and the deadliest tropical cyclone. The storm was a Category 4 before weakening to a Category 1 when it hit Louisiana. The storm cut off oil production in the Gulf, and caused severe damage in the state. Fifteen people lost their lives, and Lili caused damage over $1 billion.

Super-Typhoon Pongsona

In December of the same year, the Island of Guam was struck by one of the worst typhoons ever. Known as Super Typhoon Pongsona, the storm brought with it winds of 144 mph, with gusts up to 173 mph, and surf that reached 25 feet. It was a Category 3 when it made landfall. Pongsona was the third worst storm to ever hit the island. The storm caused over $700 million in damages and one death.

Veterans Day 2002 Weekend Tornadoes

Over Veterans Day weekend in 2002, a rash of tornados occurred throughout the south and Midwest. Eighty-three tornadoes were reported from November 9 through 11. The storms were spread over 17 states. Twelve of the storms killed 36 people in five different states. The outbreak was exceptional because of its long duration, large affected area, and number of tornadoes spawned. It proved to be one of the most active fall tornado seasons in US history.

Space Shuttle Columbia

On February 1, 2003, the space Shuttle Columbia broke apart during reentry. Nearly 84,000 pieces of debris fell over three states: Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. The tragedy resulted in the largest-ever, organized ground search to locate the debris. We supplied meals to searchers who were in remote areas trying to locate human remains and shuttle fragments.

Colorado Winter Snow Storm

Six weeks later, a powerful blizzard moved into sections of Colorado. This front brought warm, moist air into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains where temperatures had already dropped below freezing. Six feet of heavy, wet snow fell over a four-day period. The weight of the snow caused numerous roof collapses, power outages, and ultimately millions in damages.

May 2003 Tornado Outbreak Sequence

From May 3^rd to the 11^th, an outbreak of tornadoes occurred in 19 states in the central and eastern part of the nation, and one Canadian province. During the outbreak, 401 tornadoes were spotted, setting a record for the most reported in one week. These storms resulted in 41 deaths, 642 injuries, and approximately $829 million in damages.

Effects of Hurricane Isabel in Virginia

Hurricane Isabel made landfall on the Outer Banks in September 2003 with winds reaching 165 mph. It moved into Virginia weakening, where its rain and winds affected 99 counties. The storm surge reached nine feet causing damage to homes along rivers, and flash flooding in the mountain regions of the state. Over 1.8 million residents were without power, and Isabel proved to be the costliest disaster in Virginia’s history.

May 2004 Tornado Series

The Central and Southern U.S. experienced a series of tornado outbreaks throughout May 2004. During the period, 389 tornadoes were reported, and seven people were killed in four states. This series continued through the Memorial Day weekend, with outbreaks on May 30 and 31. Activity was concentrated in the Mississippi, Tennessee and Ohio River Valleys, spawning 168 tornadoes. These storms accounted for five deaths in two states. Damage for the entire series in May reached $240 million.

Tropical Storm Bonnie

The 2004 Hurricane Season was quite active. In August 2004, Tropical Storm Bonnie crossed into Florida with winds of 65 mph and a four-foot storm surge. The storm caused tornado outbreaks across the Southeastern U.S. that downed trees and caused power outages. Three people were killed. The storm brought damages over $1 million.

Hurricane Charley

Charley struck southwest Florida as a Category 4 storm on August 14, just 22 hours after Hurricane Bonnie had hit. The two storms have the distinction of being the first two tropical cyclones to hit the same state within 24 hours. Charley was the strongest hurricane to impact Florida since Andrew in 1992. It cut a diagonal path across the state, moving up the U.S. coast. It caused $13 billion in damages and 10 deaths.

Tropical Storm Gaston

The Category 1 Gaston impacted South Carolina on August 29, 2004. It then crossed into North Carolina and Virginia causing damages of $130 million and killing nine.

Hurricane Frances

Three weeks after Hurricane Charley, Frances impacted Central Florida. The Category 4 storm caused significant damage to Florida’s citrus crop. Frances moved into the Gulf of Mexico, and made a second landfall in Florida in the Panhandle region. It then moved northeast through the eastern U.S. and into Canada. 49 people were killed, and damages equaled $12 billion.

Hurricane Ivan

The ninth named storm in 2004 was Ivan. It reached Category 5 in the Gulf of Mexico and grew as large as the State of Texas. It struck Alabama as a Category 3 causing significant damage. It moved east through the southeast U.S. dropping heavy rains, then looped toward the Gulf again hitting Louisiana and Texas. It caused $18 billion in total damages, making it the fifth costliest storm.

Hurricane Jeanne

The deadliest hurricane of the 2004 season was Jeanne. The Category 2 storm made landfall in Florida just two miles from where Frances hit the coast two weeks earlier. It brought record-breaking floods as far away as New Jersey. It brought 3006 deaths, and $6.8 billion in damages.

The Indiana Ice Storm of 2005

On January 5, 2005, heavy freezing rain fell across Central Indiana. The ice accumulated to an inch in some areas, resulting in power outages for 180,000 people. The weight of the ice coupled with high winds caused numerous trees to fall, bringing down power lines and exploding transformers in the process. Power was out for days, and damage was in the millions.

Hurricane Dennis

Hurricane Dennis was the first major hurricane of what would become an incredibly active 2005 season. It made landfall on Florida’s Panhandle as a Category 3 storm on July 10. The storm caused 89 deaths, and $2.2 billion worth of damages.

Hurricane Katrina

The Category 5 hurricane was one of the five deadliest storms in the history of the United States, and the costliest natural disaster ever. It was also the sixth strongest Atlantic hurricane on record. It made landfall in Louisiana on August 29, 2005, wreaking an estimated $81 billion in damage, and killing 1,836 people.

Hurricane Rita

Rita made landfall in Texas on September 23, 2005. The Category 3 storm caused considerable damage: $11.3 billion. It also claimed seven lives. It was the most intense tropical cyclone ever observed in the Gulf of Mexico, where it reached a Category 5.

Hurricane Wilma

Rita might have been the most intense storm in the Gulf, but Wilma held that title in the Atlantic! It was the fourth Category 5 hurricane of the 2005 season. On October 24 Wilma made landfall in western Florida as a Category 3 storm. Damages finally reached $32 billion, and 62 deaths were caused by the hurricane.

Extended Power Outages due to Hurricane Wilma

In the aftermath of Wilma, more than 6,000,000 residents were without power. Many remained in the dark for over 20 days. Cable TV, internet, and cell phone service remained out for up to two months in some areas. Lack of power created gasoline shortages, as well. Damages in Florida alone equaled $20 billion.

2006 Severe Thunderstorms in the Midwest

A powerful line of thunderstorms moved through the Midwest on March 31, 2006. It caused damage to homes, injured people, and knocked down power lines. Along with high winds and rain came golf-ball-sized hail that damaged property. Water runoff from spring melting was enhanced with the rainfall resulting in flash flooding.

Hurricane Humberto

On September 13, 2007 Humberto hit Texas with winds reaching 90 mph. Damage was light, only reaching $50 million. But Humberto brought significant rainfall, 14 inches, causing widespread flooding and damaging homes and roads. The storm killed one person.

Hurricane Dolly

Dolly was the second hurricane to form in the 2008 season. It made landfall as a Category 1 storm in Texas on July 23 with 85 mph winds. Some 125,000 residents lost power to their homes while the storm dropped 16 inches of rain. There were no hurricane-related deaths in Texas, but the storm did cause damages in the neighborhood of $1 billion.

Hurricane Gustav

The third hurricane of 2008 was Gustav. The largest evacuation in U.S. history, affecting 3 million people, happened in response to Gustav. On September 1 the Category 1 storm hit Louisiana, causing 4.3 billion in damages. A total 153 people lost their lives.

Hurricane Ike

It was a strong Category 2 storm when Ike made landfall near Galveston, Texas on September 13, 2008. Ike was large, and as a result, it became the second-costliest hurricane ever in the United States at $29.6 billion. In the U.S., 123 people were killed, and 23 are still missing.

Effects of Hurricane Ike

The effects of Ike were intense, and felt across eleven states: Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and West Virginia. High winds with hurricane-like gusts were experienced across the Midwest, bringing one of the largest power outages ever caused by a natural disaster.

Snow Storm of December 2008

In late December 2008 a series of snowstorms occurred across the U.S. and Canada bringing record-level snowfall, and resulting in the biggest snowstorm since 1968. Snow accumulated from Seattle to Maine, closing down cities and causing power outages. In the Central Atlantic States, as much as two feet of snow fell.

January 2009 Central Plains and Midwest Ice Storm

This ice storm occurred across seven states (Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, West Virginia and Kentucky) and resulted in two million people losing power. In Western Kentucky, 100,000 went without power for over a week. This storm killed 65 people, with most deaths being blamed on carbon monoxide poisoning. Damages accumulated to $125 million.

Haiti Earthquake

On January 12, 2010, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake occurred with its epicenter in the island nation of Haiti. An estimated 3 million people were affected, and some 316,000 people lost their lives. The Haiti quake was the third deadliest ever.

April 2011 Tornado Outbreak Sequence

For four days in 2011, the largest tornado outbreak in U.S. history occurred. From April 25 to 28, a total of 336 tornadoes were reported in the South, Midwest and Northeast sections of the U.S. The storms left catastrophic destruction, especially in the South. April 27 was one of the most prolific and destructive tornado days in history. The outbreak killed 346 people and caused damages in excess of $10 billion.

Hurricane Irene

Irene was the ninth named storm of the 2011 season, but the first to become a hurricane. It made landfall in North Carolina as a Category 3 on August 27, and moved northeast up the east coast. The storm briefly moved back over the Atlantic, and mad a second landfall over New Jersey, making the storm the first hurricane to make landfall in the state since 1903. Considerable damage occurred in upstate New York and Vermont. Those states experienced the worst flooding there in centuries.

* Thanks to the contributors of Wikipedia for the disaster event details.

HeaterMeals Offers a Vendor Managed Inventory System

2011-08-22T08:01:00.000-07:00

Preparing for future emergencies can be time consuming. As you make sure you have everything needed, you spend time preparing your plans. Often those plans involve having emergency supplies, such as HeaterMeals Self-Heating meals, on hand, there when you need them.

But being prepared for an emergency can be space consuming, as well, requiring proper storage space. Having those supplies on hand, just in case, means you have to store them somewhere safe and protected. Having that adequate warehouse space on hand is not always an option. That’s where HeaterMeals can help.

We not only supply the leading self-heating, shelf-stable emergency meal, but we also provide a Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) service for qualified customer orders.

After receiving your order, HeaterMeals can assemble and store large quantities of our self-heating meals and meals kits in our climate-controlled warehouse in Cincinnati, Ohio. Our facility is centrally located in the United States, giving us the ability to ship to 80% of the nation’s population, from Maine to Florida, Texas to Colorado, within 24 hours.

The inventory is available to you, the customer, on a 24/7 basis, and can be released for immediate shipment upon your request. You can use the meals for emergency or non-emergency reasons, as well. It is yours to control.

At times when you need your meals delivered quickly, we can also arrange expedited, “team-driver” shipping for your meals. This will ensure that your shipment arrives in the fastest possible time.

The HeaterMeals Vendor Managed Inventory service is a great storage solution. You maintain control of your inventory without the challenges of storing it at your site. For more information about our VMI service, give us a call at 800-503-4483.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals: Made in the USA

2011-07-20T12:27:00.001-07:00

When you look around at our country today, you can’t help but wonder, “Where have all the jobs gone?” Trade agreements signed in the mid and late 1990s have allowed American businesses to move manufacturing jobs outside of the United States, to countries such as China and Mexico. In those places, labor costs are much lower, making it attractive for American businesses to send jobs there. With manufacturing shrinking in the U.S., one has to ask, “Is anything made in America anymore?”

The answer is yes, HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals! We’re an American company through and through!

HeaterMeals is an American-owned company, producing a product that was conceived of, designed, and is produced in America, by Americans. We’re headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, right in the middle of America’s Heartland! We take pride in the fact that all of the components in our self-heating meals and meal kits, from the packaging, to the food, to the food heaters, are Made in the USA. We remain 100% American-Made, and have been since we started our business in 1990!

Our products are used by a wide array of people, but we’re most proud about serving America’s heroes: The Red Cross, FEMA, First Responders and the U.S. Military. In fact, our patented Self-Heating technology is considered a vital component for the welfare of our troops. Since 1990, we’ve made over 1.5 Billion food heaters for our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines! We’re proud to serve those who serve us all.

We believe in America, and what it stands for. We’re staying here. We’ll continue to employ Americans, and produce the best self-heating meal for the military, first responders, and everyone else who wants to Enjoy a Hot Meal, Anytime, Anyplace!

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

Quality Control at HeaterMeals

2011-06-08T09:27:00.000-07:00

We receive many comments on our Self-Heating meals. Some include complimentary feedback on the taste of our food. Others think HeaterMeals are a great value. People have also told us that they are impressed with the efficiency and ease of use of our food heater. We appreciate each and every compliment we receive because we work hard to make sure that quality is built-in to every HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meal.

At our Cincinnati, Ohio facility, Quality Control (QC) is an ongoing process that touches every production process. It’s the job of our QC team to ensure our products meet the most stringent standards for customer satisfaction and safety. These folks are good at what they do. They’ve been doing it for over 20 years!

Being a food product, HeaterMeals has many governmental regulations that it must meet to ensure that the final product is safe for consumers. Before each production run, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is informed. They send a representative to observe our processes, and ensure that we meet their food handling and packaging standards.

HeaterMeals production occurs on a regular basis. The aim of our production team is to do a quality job, while packaging meals as quickly as possible. “We settle the production process down so checks can be made,” explains Quality Assurance Manager Matt Wynn. “We’re the extra set of eyes.”

During production, QC personnel perform continual product sampling. In fact, the QC staff samples product from the production line every seven minutes. Checks are made to ensure that our food is from the correct production run, that our snack items are not expired, and that packaging and labeling is correct. The sampling guarantees that the package contains only what it should, and that no mistakes slip by.

QC also verifies certificates by vendors, checks the expiration of incoming packages, and ensures the ability to trace food shipments, in case of recalls. The QC team also inspects receipts and performs type-count-condition checks, which makes sure that vendors supply us with the proper quantities of a certain product, and that the product is in proper condition for packaging.

In addition to food-related quality control checks and practices, the HeaterMeals QC team also oversees the quality of our food heaters. In the Quality Control Lab, food heaters, formerly known as flameless ration heaters, or FRHs, undergo inspections and checks. Since our FRHs are used in every U.S. Military Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MRE), they must meet stringent, military specifications set by the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP). In our last annual DSCP audit, HeaterMeals received a 100% compliance rating with no deficiencies. We’re proud of our record with DSCP, and work hard to meet their standards.

So as you enjoy your tasty, HeaterMeals entrée with the reliable self-heating technology, remember all of the quality-control checks that go into each meal. We’re working hard to assure that you’ll enjoy every bite.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

We Have Meals Ready for You

2011-05-09T08:33:00.000-07:00

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   By itself, our patented self-heating technology makes HeaterMeals an ideal survival food for use during, or after, a disaster or severe weather event. HeaterMeals require no electricity or open flame to heat. Our meals provide a nutritious, tasty, "Hot Meal, Anytime, Anyplace."TM

   Ordering and receiving a stock of HeaterMeals in response to a disaster is easy. Just call 800-503-4483 to order. We also provide three 24/7/365 emergency numbers for ordering after business hours. Our sales staff are experts in coordinating emergency shipments. It's what we do. You'll have a lot more on your mind when you call than just needing HeaterMeals. We'll take care of getting your order where it needs to be quickly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on other concerns.

   HeaterMeals will ship any size order that you need, as well, from a single case, to multiple truckloads. In addition, our team members are trained and ready to prepare and ship emergency orders in an expedited fashion. It's our highest priority!

   HeaterMeals also ensures that we have meals ready to go to fill your order. At any given time, we have between one and two million self-heating meals on hand, ready to ship. Our inventory is stored in two climate-controlled warehouses in Cincinnati, Ohio.

   We're centrally located in the Midwest along three major interstate highways, and within two hours of four more. Our location, along with our strategic transportation partnerships, allows us to reach 79% of the nation's population within 24 hours!

   Our self-heating technology, our accessibility, our staff, our inventory, and our transportation capabilities all make HeaterMeals the best choice for emergency feeding after a disaster. We have the meals, we have the expertise, and we're ready to help.

Why Extended Storage is the Right Option

2011-04-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

It wasn’t long ago that folks who prepared for a future emergency were viewed as eccentric, extremists, conspiracy kooks, or alarmists. No one really took these folks seriously, and their cautious views often resulted in jokes made about them behind their backs. In fact, when I was growing up in the ‘70s during the Cold War, my dad built a bomb shelter and loaded it with supplies. Of course, we didn’t really talk about “Dad’s Hole in the Ground” to our friends.

Haiti Earthquake Aftermath

However, after a decade that included the 9/11 terrorist attacks, severe weather and earthquakes that had a devastating impact, emergency preparedness has become the responsible thing to do. Prompted by our Federal, State and local governments, individuals are now taking steps to become more prepared for a future disaster.

Those preparations often take different forms. They might include escape plans, or determining rendezvous points for families. Some have purchased generators, or stored gasoline for quick getaways. Typically, preparations include storing first aid kits, extra clothing, and of course food and water. When storing food, the primary concern is the shelf-life: how long will the food last while it is in storage, and will that food be edible.

Dehydrated food is a popular form of food for storage right now. It stores easily, has a long shelf-life, and can be easily re-hydrated with water. However, one drawback to consider is that re-hydrating your food will cut into your water supply. Also, if the power is out, which is very likely in most emergency scenarios, heating your food during re-hydration will present a challenge. Cold, re-hydrated food is not very appealing.

Hurricane Katrina

Another popular option is surplus Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs). However, make sure you know what the production of your MREs are before you purchase them. MREs only have a three-year shelf-life, and if you’re buying them surplus, they may already be past the Use-By date.

Some MRE manufacturers also make commercial forms of their military MREs for civilian use. If purchased soon after their production date, these MREs can have the bulk of their shelf-life in tact. However, MRE manufacturers do not alter the formulation of their foods for their commercial MREs. That means you’re buying a food product for you and your family that was intended for young soldiers in combat situations. MREs contain high levels of calories, fat, carbohydrates and sodium, because soldiers need those nutrients to keep their bodies’ performing under stressful conditions.

Civilians, on the other hand, do not have those same needs. Those high levels of calories, fat, carbohydrates and sodium can actually be harmful for those who lead a less strenuous lifestyle.

HeaterMeals EX Will Store Up to
5 Years Based on the Production Date

That’s why we suggest HeaterMeals EX as a long-term emergency storage solution. All of our HeaterMeals have lower levels of calories, fat, carbohydrates and sodium when compared to commercial MREs. In addition, HeaterMeals EX is designed for EXtended Storage, up to five years based on the production date. There is no refrigeration required. That’s because we package HeaterMeals EX using a process similar to canning, except we use a more modern pouch, instead of a can. The packaging alone achieves the long shelf-life, up to five years. There are no preservatives added to our food.

HeaterMeals EX

All of our HeaterMeals entrees come ready to eat, as well. Our meals are pre-cooked, and similar to what you might find in your local super market. There is no preparation or re-hydrating required to eat the meal. In addition, every HeaterMeals entrée also comes with our patented self-heating technology to heat your meal without the need for electricity, or an open flame. During the stressful times of an emergency, food that is familiar is comforting, and a hot meal does wonders for lifting one’s spirits, and renewing one’s energy.

While we all pray for the best, it is prudent to be prepared for the worst. With growing uncertainty in the world, unrest in middle-east countries, and our own economic recession, it just makes sense to do so. HeaterMeals EX provides you with a long-term food storage option, a product that self-heats, and a meal that is familiar for your family to eat.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

How Does HeaterMeals' Extended Storage Work?

2011-03-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals boast some really great features: our patented self-heating technology, and our nutritional superiority over other emergency meals, just to name a few. Perhaps the most amazing feature, though, is the shelf life of our meals. With an extended storage capability of up to five years, HeaterMeals is not just the right emergency meal for emergency response, but also the ideal choice for emergency planning.

Our ability to extend the shelf life of our food products has nothing to do with preservatives. Instead, the long shelf-life comes from its packaging. We use a process that is similar to what is done in canning. First, the food is cooked and then placed in the packaging. We then seal the package, and cook the food a second time. This second cooking raises the temperature of the food, eliminating any microbes that might be present. This process ensures a safe, stable meal for an extended period.

For years, the canning industry has used metal cans to package their food. The cans are durable, and you can seal them airtight. HeaterMeals uses a different package to achieve the same goal. Our original product, HeaterMeals Entrees, and our HeaterMeals Plus Meal Kits, are packaged in a plastic, 12-ounce tub. Once the cooked food is placed in the tub, a plastic film cover is glued in place and the meal is then cooked a second time. The seal is guaranteed for up to two years.

Instead of a plastic tub, HeaterMeals 3 Meal Kits, and HeaterMeals EX use a slightly different package. After the food is cooked, it is placed in a 4-layer retort pouch and sealed. The pouch is a much more durable container than the plastic tub. It doesn’t allow any air to enter the package. Using the 4-layer pouch and the double-cooking process ensures a shelf-life of up to five years!!

The secret to extended storage, then, is the packaging. It’s one more reason why HeaterMeals is the ideal choice for both emergency response, and emergency preparedness.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals and Business Continuity Planning

2011-02-01T09:51:00.000-08:00

There is a growing movement today among companies to maintain critical business functions during a crisis. The idea is called Business Continuity, and it ensures that daily tasks such as project management, system backups, change control, and maintaining a help desk will continue during a disaster. Business Continuity Planning (BCP) calls for businesses to plan ahead and map out strategies so when a crisis does occur, a company can continue to interact with suppliers, customers and other entities as it normally would. The key is advance planning, and not waiting until a disaster strikes to react.

Businesses Continuity planners suggest adopting a methodology for emergency operation, unique to each company’s needs. Firms need to put plans in place so vital functions such as electrical, computer and phone systems, production, transportation and other needs can continue. These methodologies and strategies make up the Business Continuity Plan.

While creating a plan, companies need to consider maintaining the most important system in their company, the human system. Humans are a little more complicated to plan for than electrical or transportation systems. Humans require a daily intake of resources to function properly, namely food and water. That means businesses should consider keeping a store of food and water available for their employees as part of their Business Continuity Plan.

Over the past 10 years, corporations, hospitals, and emergency management agencies have used HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals to provide hot meals during emergencies. The ability to heat a meal Anytime, Anyplace, without the need for electricity or an open flame could prove to be vital during a crisis when electricity has been lost. A growing number of Business Continuity Planners now include HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals as part of their Emergency Plan. In fact, HeaterMeals EX is Designed for Extended Storage, up to 5 years based on the production date. Our meals are formulated for the diets of most people, and contain low levels of sodium, less fat and no trans fat when compared to other emergency meals. With our patented self-heating technology, and extended shelf-life, HeaterMeals EX is the ideal choice for Business Continuity Planners.

HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals come with everything needed for a hot nutritious meal, including cutlery, seasonings, and a serving tray. HeaterMeals are tasty and easy-to-use. With Extended Storage options up to 5 years without refrigeration, HeaterMeals can be used as Basic Supplies in Disaster Supply Kits. HeaterMeals will keep your Human System operating, providing them with hot, nutritious meals during emergencies. When your resources are already limited, take steps to ensure the good operation of your most important one, your people.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals, “Being There When We’re Needed”

2011-01-20T09:40:00.001-08:00

A Family receives HeaterMeals 3 - Meal Kits
after Hurricane Gustav

If there is an emergency, HeaterMeals is ready to help. We’ve been serving first responders for nearly a decade and a half. HeaterMeals is the Original Self-Heating Meal and, in fact, we were the first such meal used for emergency response. Over that time, we have built a record of service with our customers. That record illustrates our reliability, consistency, professionalism, and compassion. We’re there when you need us, and we will answer the phone 24/7/365.

HeaterMeals began serving first responders in March 1997 when the Ohio River flooded its banks. We supplied meals to the Red Cross who were aiding those displaced by the flooding. After that, we continued to supply meals on a consistent basis during severe weather and man-made crisis. Most recently, we sent over a million meals on behalf of the Red Cross to Haiti relief in 2010. Over the years, we've supplied meals to groups ranging from FEMA and the American Red Cross, to state and local Emergency Agencies.

Our Warehouse Staff Readies a Shipment

Our commitment to aid those in need after a disaster has lead us to develop a simple philosophy, “Be there when we’re needed.” It’s an idea that permeates every level of the company.

For example, our dedicated warehouse staff has made themselves available on days off to come in and prepare shipments when needed. Our office staff has worked overtime and weekends taking orders and arranging shipping after a crisis. Since disasters don’t always happen between 8 am and 5 pm EST, we’ve established three emergency numbers to provide greater access to first responders. The fact that our philosophy is embraced at all levels can best be illustrated by the fact that one of the emergency numbers rings through to our company president on a 24/7 basis.

Receiving a case of HeaterMeals EX
after the 2010 Haiti Earthquake

We have also developed strategic partnerships with freight carriers and cargo transportation companies that provide us the ability to ship meals at anytime. If you call us at midnight, we can have a truck leaving our Cincinnati facility before dawn breaks. These partnerships also allow us to reach 79% of the country's population within 24 hours.

Our commitment to being there when we’re needed has made us the Number 1 emergency meal used by emergency agencies. The fact that our meals are Number 1 in proven heating technology, and that they are nutritionally designed for people of all ages, is just icing on the cake.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

Emergency Feeding Solutions

2010-12-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

As I was preparing to write this, I came across an article in the Public Health Reports journal from 1957. Dr. Roy E. Butler's article, entitled, "Emergency Feeding," examined prior emergency feeding processes, and outlined a strategy for moving forward. The article was written at the height of the Cold War, a time when the United States was under a constant threat of nuclear attack from the Soviet Union. As a result, Butler's examination of emergency feeding is within that context.

Emergency Feeding by the Red Cross, circa mid 1930s.

     Butler identified the importance of feeding after a disaster when he commented that, "The need to appease hunger would take priority over attempts to prevent disease, to vary diet for different age groups or conditions, or to balance the nutrient content of emergency menus."  Butler's fear was that the needed resources would be scarce, and the amount of evacuees might be so great that, "It may be impossible to satisfy traditional food patterns."

     However, what was considered impossible in 1957, is possible today with the use of HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals.

     Today, the importance of feeding individuals after an event is still of primary importance. Within 24 to 48 hours after an event, the Red Cross or the Salvation Army typically step in and establish mobile feeding facilities for those impacted. These organizations perform an important service, and their volunteers are wonderful, caring people. Without their help, emergency feeding in the United States would need to be reevaluated.

     However, it takes time for news of the event to spread, and more time to mobilize people and resources to travel to the site of the disaster and set up. A feeding-gap of between one and two days typically occurs. During that time, those affected by that event often go without food. It is during this period that using HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals would fill the feeding-gap.

Studies have shown how a hot meal can reinvigorate and bolster the morale of those impacted by disaster, both survivors and first responders. With HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals, survivors can enjoy "A Hot Meal, Anytime, Anyplace." Our patented self-heating technology requires no electricity or open flame to heat the entrees, which means a mobile kitchen is not needed. HeaterMeals can be used in wet or dry, warm or cold environments, and in any situation. HeaterMeals provide everything needed to consume our meals, as well: the entree, the food heater, a serving tray, utensils, seasonings and a napkin. A HeaterMeals entree can be prepared and consumed within 10 minutes of it being placed in an individual's hands. All of this makes HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals the ideal choice in the first 24 to 48 hours after a disaster.

Receiving HeaterMeals 3 After a Disaster.

     In 1957, Dr. Butler was concerned that the needs of getting food to survivors would outweigh the ability to, "vary diet for different age groups or conditions, or to balance the nutrient content of emergency menus." In today's world, stocking HeaterMeals is a sensible solution to both of those concerns. HeaterMeals has poducts that offer extended storage solutions, such as HeaterMeals 3, which has up to a 3 year shelf-life. In addition, our HeaterMeals EX has a shelf-life of up to 5 years. The shelf-life periods for both HeaterMeals 3 and EX are based on the production date of the meal.

     Nutritionally speaking, HeaterMeals are formulated for the diets of typical adults. Our meals contain fewer calories, lower levels of fat and carbohydrates, more protein, and lower levels of sodium than other emergency meals. We offer menu choices that fit the dietary needs of most individuals.

For example, those needing low-sugar meals might find our Homestyle Chicken and Noodles in Gravy acceptable. It contains only 3 grams of sugar. Additionally, many adults are sensitive to high levels of sodium. When compared to commercial MREs, which are also used for emergency feeding, our meals contain 40% to 70% less sodium. In fact, we offer a menu selection that has only 460 mg of sodium!

Butler also described the importance of familiar food for those impacted by disaster. He described how the morale of those bombed out in England during the Second World War was bolstered, after they "had a cup of tea and cakes."

HeaterMeals' Familiar Packaging & Menu Provide Comfort.

HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals can offer the same type of comfort today. Our meals are attractively packaged, and look like a food product that might be found in a neighborhood grocery store. Our menu selections are tasty, and familiar, providing a sense of stability. Emergency management consultant Lucien Canton suggests that providing food that victims are used to eating, can be as important to their well-being as supplying shelter and blankets. In times of disaster, when people are looking at the loss of their home and possessions, a familiar tasting meal can offer comfort, and often be the first touchstone to recovery.

Considering all the benefits that HeaterMeals have to offer, they prove to be unimportant if, in the first 24 to 48 hours, the meals cannot get into the hands of those who need them. In 1957, Butler's article stated that, "In the first phase of an emergency, the problem may be...one of distribution." Today, distribution remains a key challenge, and HeaterMeals has developed solutions to handle this.

Storing HeaterMeals Plus.

The most logical answer is to store a supply of HeaterMeals locally, and have them available for some future disaster. The counter-argument to this idea was always the expense of storing food that will eventually spoil in a short period of time. HeaterMeals EX, however, was designed with EXtended Storage in mind, Up to 5 Years. This product uses the same patented self-heating technology, and features a safety-sealed, high-barrier, 4-layer film pouch to package the food, and gain the extended shelf-life. The extended storage capabilities of HeaterMeals EX allows a local agency to store a quantity of meals, and have them on hand when a disaster strikes.

Pallets of HeaterMeals 3 Just Delivered.

     If storage is not an option, then HeaterMeals can be obtained through our expedited processing and shipping. HeaterMeals provides 24/7 emergency access. Call one of our emergency numbers, and you'll speak to a live person ready to help. In addition, we have developed strategic partnerships with freight carriers, and are centrally located within the United States, just minutes from several major interstate highways that cross the nation. All of this means that we can deliver meals to 79% of the country's population within just 24 hours after receipt of an order.

     Dr. Butler's 1957 article was written during the Cold War, when the threat of nuclear attack drove their concerns for effective emergency feeding. Today, we still prepare for that eventuality, but that threat has greatly diminished due to the fall of the Soviet Union. Presently, the over-riding need for emergency feeding is due to the continued threat of terrorist attacks and the threat that extreme weather poses. While the catalysts between the two eras differ, the concerns about emergency feeding remain the same. In 1957, these were challenges that required much planning and coordination between government and the private sector. In today's world, however, we can effectively overcome these challenges by using HeaterMeasl Self-Heating Meals.

     HeaterMeals provide the nutritional formulation that is best suited for most typical adults. The patented self-heating technology can be used anytime, anyplace. Our attractive packaging, and hot, tasty meals provide comfort, and bolster morale to individuals when they need it most. Our extended storage and transportation options can provide meals at the moment that they're needed most. And, HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals are available for purchase through several FEMA/DHS grants.

     When one considers the challenges that emergency feeding presents, it becomes clear that HeaterMeals are the ideal solution.  For more information, visit http://www.heatermeals.com/.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals Parent Company Offers New Emergency Products

2010-11-08T14:03:00.000-08:00

     HeaterMeals continues to be the number 1 shelf-stable, self-heating, emergency meal. We are proud to serve emergency First Responders such as law enforcement, fire, HAZMAT teams, FEMA and the Red Cross.   Now, our parent company, Innotech Products, Ltd., is further serving this group with a new line of Chemical/Biological Response (CBR) products.

In May of this year, Innotech Products began selling and distributing CBR kits. For many years, these kits had only been available to the military. These CBR products were designed to keep our soldiers safe during a chemical and biological (CB) attack. They detect CB agents that might be present at that time, and also identify the CB agents so the proper defensive action can be taken. Identification also aids in the medical treatment for those exposed to CB agents. With the growing emphasis on emergency preparedness by the federal, state, county and local governments, Innotech has now made these products available to both the military and civilian First Responders.

There are eight kits in this line of products. Five kits detect CB agents, three identify the type of agent present, and one poduct decontaminates personnel and equipment. There are also training kits available.

The M256A1 is a chemical agent detector kit. It samples a large area for the presence of chemical agents, and identifies the type of agent present. The M256A1 detects the following types of CB agents: nerve (all V and G types), blister (CX, HD, L), blood (AC, CK), Lewisite (L), and mustards (H, HD, HN, and HT).

For detecting dangerous concentrations of vapors, aerosols and liquid droplets, one should use the M18A3. It is used by pointing a detector tube or ticket toward a particular point to sample for CB agents.

M18A3 detects an array of agents: Cyanogen chloride (CK), mustards (H, HD, HN, and HT), phosgene Oxime (CX), hydorcyanic acid (AC), phosgene (CG), lewisite (L), ethyl dichloroarsine (ED), methyl dichloroarsine (ND) and nerve (all V and G types).

The M272 tests for CB agents in water. It detects and identifies lewisite, cyanide, nerve (all V and G types), and mustard (H) blister agents. The State of California has required HAZMAT teams to carry both the M272 and the M18A3 kits to meet state certification.

M8 Paper comes in a booklet of 25 sheets. The user tears out one sheet to detect the presence of nerve (V- and G- types) and blister (H-) agents. M9 Paper comes in a roll with an adhesive back, much like a roll of tape. When it is fixed to a person, equipment or a structure, it will identify the presence of liquid chemical agent aerosols such as nerve (V- and G- types), and mustards (H, HD, HN, and HT).

The M34A1 is a sampling kit. It is designed to collect liquid, soil, surface, and small solid samples of material that is suspected of being contaminated. The kit also supplies containers for securing and transporting the samples to a lab.

Included in this group of products is the M295. It is a decontamination mitt worn on the hand. M295 can decontaminate personnel or equipment by wiping the mitt over the contaminated surface. The M295 removes the CB agent and absorbs it into the mitt, holding it there for safe disposal.

In addition to the CBR kits, Innotech is also making available a Sea Water Desalter kit from Van Ben Industries. This kit treats one quart of sea water by recrystalizing the salt in the water. When drinking the water, it passes through a filter which keeps the crystalized salt from leaving the container.

These kits are available in both case and single-unit quantities. for more information visit http://www.innotechproductsltd.com/, or call 800-503-4483.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
Innotech Products dba HeaterMeals

How Does Cafe2Go Work?

2010-10-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

   Since its introduction last year, Cafe2go The Self-Heating Beverage Kit has been met with approval by groups in law enforcement, fire, and emergency response. After sharing with us what a great idea Cafe2Go is, the next question is always, "How does it work?"

     Cafe2Go uses the same patented self-heating technology that we include in every HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meal.  It comes with everything needed to enjoy 18 cups of hot coffee, tea or hot cocoa, and includes 18 cups, stirrers, creamers and sugars. The user needs to supply one gallon of drinking water. We supply the heat without the need for electricity or an open flame.

The Cafe2Go package includes a water bladder inside of the box, with a removable water spout where the drinking water is added. Surrounding the water bladder is our patented self-heating technology.

After the water is poured in and the spout has been secured, start the heater. It will raise the temperature of one gallon of water 120 degrees over the ambient temperature in just 30 minutes. Cafe2Go holds that temperature for well over an hour! Compare that to boxes of coffee you can get from leading coffee shops that do nothing to sustain the temperature of the coffee over time. Those boxes begin to cool off the moment you leave their shop. But Cafe2Go delivers hot coffee for well over an hour, and continues to provide warm coffee for period that is longer than the retail boxed coffee.

Cafe2Go comes in three kit types to fit your needs, and features name brands you know and trust such as NESCAFE, NESTEA and NESTLE. Our all Coffee Kit features 18 cups of Hot NESCAFE TASTER'S CHOICE Coffee. Just pour the 32 gram pouch into the Cafe2Go kit with the drinking water, start the heater, and you'll have hot coffee in minutes. The kit also includes 18 cups, 18 stirrers, 18 COFFEE-MATE Creamers, and 18 sugars.

The all Hot Cocoa Kit comes with 18 individual packets of NESTLE Hot Cocoa Mix, 18 cups, and 18 stirrers. In just minutes you can enjoy rich, delicious, chocolate flavor.

Some people like variety, though. For these folks there is the Cafe2Go Variety Kit. It contains 12 NESCAFE TASTER'S CHOICE Coffee packets, three NESTEA 100% Leaf Tea bags, and three packets of NESTLE Hot Cocoa mix. It also includes 18 cups, 18 stirrers, 18 sugars and 18 COFFEE-MATE Creamers.

The patented TRUETECH™ Self-Heating Technology found in Cafe2Go kits and HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals was introduced for use as the Field Ration Heater (FRH) by the U.S. Armed Forces in 1990. It was designed to heat Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs) for soldiers in the field. TRUETECH™ self-heating technology is a simple combination of powdered, food-grade iron and magnesium, combined with salt, and water. Spent heaters are biodegradable and easily disposed of, with no toxic materials. To date, over 1.5 Billion meals have been heated with our self-heating technology.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

What are the Differences in Our Four HeaterMeals Products

2010-09-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

   With four product types that are so similar, there's often some confusion about what the differences are between our HeaterMeals Products: HeaterMeals Entrees, HeaterMeals EX, HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits, and HeaterMeals Plus Meal Kits.  Afterall, they're all food products, and their all self-heating. What other differences could there be? Actually, there are several.

HeaterMeals Entrees is the original Self-Heating Meal, introduced in 1994. The intent was to allow civilian consumers to have the ability to enjoy "A Hot Meal, Anytime, Anyplace."™ HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals come in an assortment of six, great tasting, shelf stable 3/4 pound entrees. Included with the meal is a utensil pack, our patented Food Heater, and a pouch of water to start it.

HeaterMeals Entrees has a shelf-life of up to two years.

In 2000, we developed a self-heating meal kit called HeaterMeals Plus™, The Self-Heating Meal, PLUS all the Fixings. HeaterMeals Plus includes a 3/4 pound entree, and brand name snack items such as Musselman's Cinnamon Apple Sauce or Hunt's Chocolate Pudding, Stauffer's Snicker Doodle Cookies, and California Raisins. It also comes with a 12 ounce beverage and breadsticks. The kit has everything needed to enjoy a hot meal, seasonings, cutlery and a napkin. HeaterMeals Plus Complete Meal Kits come in an assortment of nine, great tasting lunch and dinner entrées, and one breakfast meal kit.

HeaterMeals Plus has a shelf-life of up to 18 months.

In 2006, we introduced HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits. HeaterMeals 3 is similar to HeaterMeals Plus, but with an added feature: up to a 3-year shelf life based on the production date. Like the other HeaterMeals products, HeaterMeals 3 provides a large ¾ pound entrée. It also features additional fruit and snack items, cutlery, a napkin, and a beverage mix. HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits come in an assortment of five great tasting entrées for lunch and dinner.

HeaterMeals EX Entrees were developed in 2008, and Designed for EXtended Storage of up to 5 years, based on the production date. Combining the benefits of long-term storage, and lower sodium recipes (like other HeaterMeals products), HeaterMeals EX Entrees offer a simple solution for emergency continuity planning and disaster response feeding. HeaterMeals EX features a 3/4 pound entree, and comes with a utensil pack, our patented Food Heater, and a pouch of water to start it. HeaterMeals comes in an assortment of six great tasting entrees.

So, depending on the situation you're in, or are planning for, HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals and Meal Kits have the right product choice for you.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

Disposal of Flameless Ration Heaters (FRH) and Food Heaters

2010-08-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

   The TRUETECH™ Self-Heating Technology is found in both the Flameless Ration Heaters (FRH) that heat military MREs, and also the food heaters found in HeaterMeals products. Both heaters are a simple combination of powdered food grade iron and magnesium, salt, and water. When water is poured on the heater pad (HeaterMeals food heaters use salt water, while FRH MRE heaters use regular water) the Food Heater releases enough heat to warm-up a pre-cooked meal 100 degrees Fahrenheit in approximately 10 minutes.

     Both types of food heaters are non-toxic and safe to use. Spent food heaters can be easily disposed of as household trash.

     The use of the military FRH MRE heater has raised questions in the past, and for a period of time, its disposal had certain requirements attached to it.

     However, in 2004 the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) changed its original stance on how to dispose of small quantities of unused FRH food heaters. The EPA found that the FRHs were safe to dispose of as regular trash. In a guidance letter dated 10/19/2004, the EPA stated,

               UNDER EPA’S NEW GUIDANCE, FRHS ISSUED TO SOLDIERS WITH MRES
               FOR USE IN THE FIELD, AT MILITARY INSTALLATIONS, OR IN A TEMPORARY
               OR PERMANENT RESIDENTIAL SETTING ARE EXEMPT FROM RCRA
               REGULATION AS HOUSEHOLD HAZAROUS WASTE. IN THESE
               CIRCUMSTANCES, SOLDIERS MAY DISPOSE OF WASTE FRH, EITHER
               ACTIVATED OR UNACTIVATED, AS NON-HAZARDOUS SOLID WASTE.

     So, used and unused food heaters can be disposed of as ordinary trash. Large quantities of FRH food heaters can be returned to our factory for recycling for a nominal fee. Please call us toll free at 1-800-503-4483 for the details.

     For complete comments from the EPA regarding FRH and food heater disposal, please see this Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP) link to EPA Guidelines for disposal of unused FRH MRE heaters.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals vs. MREs

2010-07-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

...
When speaking of shelf-stable, self-heating food entrees used for mobile emergency feeding, there are two names that have become the standard in the industry – HeaterMeals and MREs. In fact, the words "Heater Meals" have become a generic term for these emergency meals, much like "Kleenex" has in the facial tissue industry. It’s gratifying for HeaterMeals to have become a “generic” name within the emergency food industry; but it also leads to some confusion. There is a major difference between HeaterMeals and Commercial MREs.

A Commercial MRE

It is true that we make ALL the food heaters (over 1.5 Billion to date) in every type of MRE, so the food heating method is similar. The key difference, however, is in the makeup of the food. HeaterMeals Entrees are NOT MRE rations. MRE rations are designed nutritionally for a young soldier in combat who is exerting himself physically.

Therefore, MRE rations contain higher calories and high levels of sodium, carbohydrates and fats. These things are needed to fuel the body of a young soldier who is active in combat. Commercial MREs, sold to the public, are essentially formulated the same as military rations. The only significant difference between the two is that some snack and food components have been removed from the military MRE, to make up the commercial MRE.

HeaterMeals Nutrition

HeaterMeals Entrees

     HeaaterMeals Entrees, on the other hand, were nutritionally designed to feed civilians from all walksof life. Civilians are not physically stressed as combat soldiers are, and do not require the high calories, high sodium, high carbohydrate diet of a soldier. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has developed "Dietary Guidelines for Americans." Please see their table detailing the daily Estimated Calorie Requirements for Each Gender and Age Group.

   In an attempt to meet the nutritional requirements of civilians, HeaterMeals provides entrees for a wider array of dietary needs. Of the six varieties of HeaterMeals Entrees, two are reduced-sodium “heart healthy” entrees, one HeaterMeals EX meal has only 3 grams of sugar, and we also provide Vegetarian entrées. Compared to MREs and other emergency shelf-stable meal options, HeaterMeals offer 35% to 70% less sodium content.

   HeaterMeals also offer the widest variety of meal selections for people of all ages and dietary needs. In public shelter feeding situations, the age of those being served may range from children through senior citizens. An MRE is simply not suitable for feeding all segments of the population, but there is a HeaterMeals variety for almost everyone.

HeaterMeals 3

HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kit

   In 2006, we developed HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits as an alternative to military-style commercial MREs. The "3" in the name refers to its 3 year shelf-life, based on the production date. HeaterMeals 3 Kits offer a more healthy option to MREs. Brand name snacks come in all HeaterMeals Meal Kits. Compare that to those found in commercial MREs, which are packaged in Army Green or tan vacuum-packing. Of course, all HeaterMeals have a colorful package to create appetite appeal. You'll even find a convenient serving tray provided in every package to easily enjoy your meal after heating. This beats the "pouch only dining" option of MREs. Also, when HeaterMeals and MRE rations are served in the same field location or shelter, the HeaterMeals are the first chosen.

   The 12 ounce main entrees found in HeaterMeals are 50% larger than 8 ounce MRE Entrées. HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits are higher in protein and fiber content, as well, yet are lower than MREs in sodium, cholesterol, and fat. In fact, HeaterMeals 3 Kits contain no Trans Fats, which continue to be found in all varieties of MRE rations.

Nutritional Comparison:
HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits vs. A Popular Commercial MRE Ration

   The chart below details the nutritional differences between HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits and A Popular Commercial MRE Ration. The figures listed are averages derived from the 6 meal kit varieties of HeaterMeals 3 that we offer, and the 6 types of MRE rations offered by A Popular Commercial MRE company. The comparison chart includes the main entrée, the snacks and drink mix. Click on the chart to see it larger.

To see a more detailed chart of the Nutrition Facts of all 6 varieties of HeaterMeals 3 compared to the 6 types of A Popular Commercial MRE Rations, click here.

Key Observations

•HeaterMeals 12 ounce main entrees are 50% larger than 8 ounce Commercial MRE Ration Entrees.

•In the HeaterMeals 3 Meal Kit – The 12 ounce Entrée and the Healthy Snack “Fancy Fruit Mix” provide 53.6% of the total Meal Kit calories. In this Commercial MRE Ration, the 8 ounce Entrée and the Healthy Snack “Raisins” provide 29.6% of the total MRE calories.

Nutritional Comparison Chart - Click Here to See Enlarged

•Compared to these Commercial MRE Rations, HeaterMeals 3 Meal Kits provide more Protein and Fiber content than Commercial MREs, yet HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits have less fat & cholesterol, no trans fat, and 38% less sodium content.

   An additional note regarding nutrition, some Commercial MREs suggest on their website that, "Just one meal meets an individual's full daily caloric needs."

   We respectfully disagree. Although a person could, perhaps, “survive” on 1,200 calories per day, we subscribe to the USDA established benchmark of a 2,000 calorie daily intake. 2,000 calories per day is the standard used for the “% Daily Values” on USDA Approved Nutrition Facts labels. As per the HHS Estimated Calorie Requirements for Each Gender and Age Group table referenced above, 1,200 calories is the recommended daily calorie intake for a 4 to 8 year old sedentary female. Thus, MREs averaging 1,213 calories are not a suitable replacement for an average adult's daily caloric intake. Instead, two HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits provide 2,100 to 2,300 calories per day, which, we believe, is a much more realistic calorie intake to maintain an adequate energy level for a typical adult.

Shelf-Life

   Despite a common perception, MREs do not have a shelf life of eight, ten, or 12 years. Here is why the confusion exists.

   This misconception is due to the widespread use of an obsolete shelf-life and storage temperature chart published and shared by some MRE web retailers and aficionados on the internet. Yes, this historical chart was, in fact, created and published by the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, the organization responsible for the development of Meals, Ready To Eat MRE Field Rations, in 1980. However, Natick spokesperson shared with us the following:

“We developed the shelf-life and storage guidelines almost 30 years ago to chart accelerated shelf life and taste tests that were conducted on the first generation of MRE Rations, which, at the time, were primarily dehydrated and freeze-dried food products. The chart does NOT apply to the retort pouch technology used for the modern generation of MREs.”

   On their current website, The U.S. Army Soldier System Center - Natick states, “The MRE's shelf life is three years at 80 degrees F and six months at 100 degrees F." The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) echoes the same statement on their website, stating, "The shelf life of the MRE is three (3) years at 80 degrees F. However, the shelf life can be extended through the use of cold storage facilities prior to distribution."

HeaterMeals EX, With Up to a 5 Year Shelf-Life

The shelf-lifechart found at HeaterMeals.com details the expected shelf-life in months of both HeaterMeals tray and pouch entrees. HeaterMeals EX entrees are served in a high barrier, flexible 4-layer foil pouch. Our meals are cooked, sealed in the pouch, then heated again under pressure to assure a safe, easy-to-store meal. The result is EXtended Storage without refrigeration and a ready-to-eat meal which retains its natural moisture, texture and taste.

Bob Turner

Marketing Manager

HeaterMeals

Extended Meal Storage and Shelf-Life

2010-06-16T05:06:00.000-07:00

   We receive a large number of questions and calls dealing with the shelf-life of MREs. It seems that there is a common perception that MREs have a shelf life that is much longer than they really do. Some people have quoted us shelf-life figures for MREs at eight, ten, or even 12 years. That's just not the case.

   Here is why the confusion exists.

   It is due to the widespread use of an outdated and obsolete shelf-life and storage temperature chart published and shared by some MRE web retailers and aficionados on the internet. This historical chart was, in fact, originally created and published by the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center. That is the organization responsible for the development of Meals, Ready To Eat (MRE) Field Rations, in 1980. However, this chart does not accurately reflect the shelf-life of the food found in modern MREs, as a Natick spokesperson shared with us:

“We developed the shelf-life and storage guidelines almost 30 years ago to chart accelerated shelf life and taste tests that were conducted on the first generation of MRE Rations, which, at the time, were primarily dehydrated and freeze-dried food products. The chart does NOT apply to the retort pouch technology used for the modern generation of MREs.”

   On their current website, The U.S. Army Soldier System Center - Natick states, “The MRE's shelf life is three years at 80 degrees F and six months at 100 degrees F." The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) echoes the same statement on their website, stating, "The shelf life of the MRE is three (3) years at 80 degrees F. However, the shelf life can be extended through the use of cold storage facilities prior to distribution."

   In comparison, the shelf-life of our HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits, and HeaterMeals EX Self-Heating Entrees both matches, and in the case of HeaterMeals EX, surpasses the shelf-life of commercial MREs. HeaterMeals 3 has a shelf-life that is up to 3 years, and HeaterMeals EX is Designed for EXtended storage up to 5 years, both based on the production date.

   The shelf-lifechart found at HeaterMeals.com details the expected shelf-life in months of HeaterMeals entrees served in both trays and pouches. HeaterMeals EX entrees are served in a high barrier, flexible 4-layer foil pouch. Our meals are cooked, sealed in the pouch, then heated again under pressure to assure a safe, easy-to-store meal. The result is EXtended Storage without refrigeration and a ready-to-eat meal which retains its natural moisture, texture and taste.

   In addition, HeaterMeals offer exceptional taste, and nutrition. Compared to Commercial MRE Rations, HeaterMeals 3 Meal Kits provide more Protein and Fiber content than Commercial MREs, yet HeaterMeals 3 Self-Heating Meal Kits have less fat and cholesterol, no trans fat, and 38% less sodium content. Every HeaterMeals serves a 12 ounce main entree which is 50% larger than that of the 8 ounce Commercial MRE Ration Entrees.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals Has Reduced Sodium Content

2010-05-03T10:57:00.000-07:00

In April, the FDA announced plans to begin gradually cutting back sodium levels in the food Americans eat. While we need salt to live, the FDA argues that Americans consume salt at levels that are harmful to us. Their effort to limit sodium is an attempt to fight such health problems as high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes and other health problems that have become increasingly common.

While we support the FDA's goals, we have to ask, what took you so long?

Here at HeaterMeals, we're proud to say that our entrees are already lower in salt than other emergency meals and MREs. In some cases, we're as much as 35% to 70% less! Yet we've maintained our tasty flavor in our self-heating entrees.

We lowered our sodium levels in 2002 when the U.S. Army Quartermaster Center's Army Center of Excellence, Subsistence (ACES) at Fort Lee, VA launched a low-sodium initiative for shelf-stable meal kits used by the U. S. Armed Forces. While all shelf-stable meal makers were forced to lower their sodium levels, HeaterMeals saw the opportunity to lead the market and lowered our salt content the most.

At the same time, we recognized that the diets of ordinary people, those who would be most likely to eat an emergency meal, did not need the high calories and carbohydrates that a soldier needed. So we made sure our meals maintained higher levels of protein and fiber, designing them for the typical adult diet.

HeaterMeals continues to be the leading self-heating meal in variety, convenience, taste and nutrition. As a result, HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals can be fed to people of all ages, from Scout Troops to Senior Citizens. We are the most widely used meal for feeding the general public in emergency shelter-in-place applications.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals Are NOW Available Through FEMA / DHS Grants

2010-04-29T08:17:00.000-07:00

Many local and state law enforcement & emergency response agencies have expressed interest in using FEMA/Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants to purchase HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals. There is some confusion, however, whether FEMA/DHS allows the purchase of emergency meals through their grant programs.

That confusion stems from a recent change in the FEMA/DHS rules. In the past, agencies were not able to purchase HeaterMeals and similar products through these grant programs.

However, in 2009, FEMA/DHS changed that. Water, shelf stable emergency meals, and MREs, are now considered “Critical Emergency Supplies,” and can be purchased using FEMA/DHS grants. HeaterMeals qualifies as a shelf-stable, emergency meal.

The new position was explained in a January 2010 e-mail to a State Administrative Agency (SAA) officer, sent on behalf of C. Gary Rogers, Director of the Grant Programs Directorate, FEMA. The subject of the e-mail was, "Allowability of Critical Emergency Supplies in FY 2010 SHSP and EMPG."

In that e-mail, it states that, "the purchase of critical emergency supplies (such as shelf stable food products...)...will continue to be allowable expenses in these respective FY 2010 programs."

For details of which grant programs allow the purchase of "Critical Emergency Supplies," please view my earlier blog entitled "HeaterMeals Available Through Five Grants," or click here.

The entire e-mail is included below:

***Sent on behalf of C. Gary Rogers, Director, Grant Programs Directorate, Federal Emergency Management Agency***

This notice serves to clarify that the purchase of critical emergency supplies (such as shelf stable food products, water, and basic medical supplies), first identified as an allowable expense under both the Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) and Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) Program, will continue to be allowable expenses in these respective FY 2010 programs. The allowability of critical emergency supplies under these two programs will continue indefinitely unless otherwise noted. As noted in FY 2009, and continuing to be applicable unless otherwise noted, each State must have FEMA’s approval of a viable inventory management plan, an effective distribution strategy, sustainment costs for such an effort, and logistics expertise to avoid situations where funds are wasted because supplies are rendered ineffective due to lack of planning.

Please don’t hesitate to contact your FEMA Program Analyst should you have any questions.

Thank You,

CSID

Grant Programs Directorate

Federal Emergency Management Agency

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals Available Through Five Grants

2010-03-05T09:58:00.000-08:00

If you're a part of the Law Enforcement / Public Safety sector, you know how important the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) can be to a local or state agency. The funds made available through these programs are typically used to purchase needed equipment or supplies, items that normally might not be purchased because of tight operating budgets.

The FEMA website describes the HSGP as "...a primary funding mechanism for building and sustaining national preparedness capabilities...Together, these programs fund a range of preparedness activities, including planning, organization, equipment purchase, training, exercises and management and administration."

Buying equipment and supplies with these federal funds is nothing new. However, this year, local and state agencies can now buy "Critical Emergency Supplies" through these FEMA/Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grant programs HeaterMeals Self-Heating Meals and Meal Kits are considered "Critical Emergency Supplies," and can be purchased through federal grants, such as those detailed below.

Selected urban areas can receive funds from the Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program (RCPGP). This program was created "...to enhance catastrophic incident preparedness" in those "11 pre-designated high-risk, high-consequence urban areas." The program "...is intended to support coordination of regional all-hazard planning for all catastrophic events, including the development of integrated planning communities, plans, protocols, and procedures to manage a catastrophic event."

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) is designed "...to supplement and expand ongoing efforts to provide shelter, food and supportive services for the nation's hungry, homeless, and people in economic crisis."

The Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) will "...assist state and local governments in enhancing and sustaining all-hazards emergency management capabilities."

The mission of the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) is "...to build capabilities at the state and local levels to implement the state homeland security goals and objectives identified in the State Preparedness Report. The 9/11 Act requires states to dedicate 25 percent of SHSP funds to law enforcement terrorism prevention-oriented planning, organization, training, exercise and equipment activities."

Finally, the intent of the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) is "...to enhance regional preparedness by strengthening capabilities in 64 high-threat, high-density urban areas across the country. The 9/11 Act requires states to dedicate 25 percent of UASI funds to law enforcement terrorism prevention-oriented activities."

The grant funds will be released to each of the 50 State Administrative Agencies (SAA). Local and state agencies must petition their respective SAA to receive these funds. Each SAA must complete their applications to FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security by April 19, 2010.

An interactive DHS Authorized Equipment List (AEL) is available online at the Responder's Knowledge Base at http://www.rkb.us/. Use the blue "AEL/SEL" button at the top of each screen. search for HeaterMeals by using the AEL number "21 CR-00-FOOD." HeaterMeals is listed as Innotech Products, Ltd. dba HeaterMeals, and our category is "Shelf Stable Ready to Eat Food Packs."

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals Headed to U.S. Military in Haiti

2010-02-08T05:43:00.000-08:00

Trucks lined up outside the HeaterMeals Headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio on Thursday February 4, waiting to be loaded with our self-heating meals. These trucks will be carrying 119,000 HeaterMeals Plus Self-Heating Meal Kits, and 18,000 Cafe2Go Self-Heating Beverage Kits in the first leg of their journey to Haiti. The shipment will support the mission of the U.S. Army Southern Command there, as they work to provide emergency relief in the aftermath of the recent earthquake.

Units from U.S. Army South are in country providing security and humanitarian aid in Haiti, as the country recovers from the devastation of last month's earthquake. The U.S. military will have a presence of approximately 5,000 soldiers, and will be pulled from all the branches of the military. The personnel will be stationed in Haiti for at least six months. HeaterMeals will continue to provide self-heating meals and Cafe2Go Self-Heating Beverage Kits until dining and refrigeration facilities are available and functioning.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

HeaterMeals & Red Cross Ship 1.3 Million Meals For Haiti Relief

2010-01-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Forklifts were rolling at the Heatermeals warehouse in Cincinnati, Ohio this week. Trucks lined up outside, waiting to get their share of 1.3 million meals that headed for Haiti. The meals are part of a stored inventory kept at the HeaterMeals facility by the American Red Cross. The 1.3 million meals is part of a larger, 3 million ready-to-eat meal shipment that the Red Cross is donating to the World Food Programme (WFP). The WFP will then handle the logistics of getting the meals to Haiti for distribution.

Trucks have been loading meals and rolling out of our warehouse since January 19. In all, 46 trucks were used to move the meals to Miami, Florida where the WFP took possession and prepared the cargo for shipping to Haiti.

WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran said on January 18, "Within the next week, WFP aims to move the equivalent of 10 million ready-to-eat meals so that the [Haitian] people whose homes have been destroyed, and who have no access to cooking facilities can feed their families." HeaterMeals is proud to have played a role in that objective.

Company president Tim Zimmerman commented, "We're very pleased and proud to assist in the effort of getting those meals to Haiti. We value our relationship of over a decade with the Red Cross, we really believe in and support their efforts to assist those disadvantaged in Haiti."

Over the last 16 years, HeaterMeals, Self-Heating Meals, have made over 50 million ready-to-eat-meals for emergency preparedness and disaster support.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

A Busy, Snowy 2009 Holiday for HeaterMeals

2010-01-08T10:01:00.000-08:00

How did you spend your Christmas Holiday last month? Like most people, probably relaxing with loved ones. For some HeaterMeals employees, the holiday was a bit busier, but it showed our dedication to those in need. Because as the snow fell through the week leading up to and through Christmas, we worked long hours through the holiday sending meals to those hardest hit by the storm.

Snow began to fall on Saturday December 19. That one storm dumped between 20 and 24 inches in the Virginia-Kentucky-West Virgina region. The snow had stranded many, and caused power outages that left residents without heat, and some without the ability to cook food. HeaterMeals Director of Marketing Dave Blandford took the first call from Virginia State officials at 3:30 am on Sunday December 20. They wanted to know how quick we could ship to their state. Dave received the go ahead in the afternoon, and he, along with employees Stan Smith and Megan Walsh, loaded two trucks. They arrived in southwest Virginia seven hours later that evening.

On Monday the 21st, another truckload delivered HeaterMeals to the state of West Virgina. Between the 21st and the 23rd, the region received more snow.

Emergency responders began delivering the HeaterMeals to residents throughout the week after that. One of the homes that received a case of HeaterMeals was that of Terry Childers and Jessi Elkins. On Christmas Day, Jessi took the time to write us about their experience.

"Just a week before Christmas tens of thousands of people lost power and basic necessities when it was near impossible to travel on the icy roads. We were taken by surprise by the storm and I'm ashamed to say, my fiance and I were not very prepared. Also a reason for my concern was that I had just arrived home from an ER visit, and am 5 months pregnant with a son. Thanks to the local emergency services and a four-wheel drive, we received a box of HeaterMeals and a case of water. To be honest, we weren't expecting them to be very good, and were more than pleasantly surprised to find out that not only were they not bad, but that they were actually pretty tasty. At the time we had very little else to make and most of it required cooking. Thanks to the HeaterMeals we got last week, we made it through the storm much easier and more comfortably than we would have otherwise. Thanks for making an excellent product. Keep up the good work."

Late in the afternoon on the 23rd, most employees at HeaterMeals began to head home for an extended holiday. Dave Blandford decided to stay late, as he often does, and take advantage of the quiet in the office to get some additional work done. Thank goodness he did, because that's when the phone began to ring. Because of the additional snow, officials from Virginia called needing more meals. That's when Dave went to work.

That evening, two days before Christmas, and alone, Dave was able to find a shipper to get the meals to the region. With no one in the warehouse, Dave jumped on the forklift and loaded two trucks himself. They left for the region around 7:30 pm, and arrived in southwest Virginia before 2 am on December 24.

On Christmas Day, while at home with his family, Dave received a call from officials in West Virginia saying they needed more meals shipped. At 6:00 am on December 26, HeaterMeals warehouse and shipping employees Steve Stortz and Peggy Morris arrived and began loading a truck bound for the state of West Virginia. The truck arrived later that afternoon.

Even though these folks aren't looking for it, HeaterMeals just wanted to say a special thanks to Dave, Stan, Megan, Steve and Peggy for their extra effort.

While we at HeaterMeals were a bit busier than usual over the holidays, our extra hours don't compare to the hardship experienced by thousands across the country who were impacted by the snow storms. We're only too glad to help, and hope that a box of HeaterMeals helped make someone's Christmas season a bit more comfortable and enjoyable.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

2010 Homeland Security Grant Program and HeaterMeals

2009-12-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

There's a lot of activity behind the scenes right now in the emergency responders, law enforcement and intelligence arenas. Many of these agencies are busy preparing a rather lengthy application to receive federal funds authorized by the Homeland Security Appropriations, 2010 legislation. There is $1.786 billion available, and agencies have until January 15, 2010 to submit their applications to their State Administrative Agency (SAA).

A suite of five grant programs was announced by FEMA on December 8, 2009 as part of the 2010 Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP). The intent of these grants is to serve as a "...primary funding mechanism for building and sustaining national preparedness capabilities." These grants are available to agencies in urban areas, county governments, and states who apply for the funds, and whose emergency plans meet a particular set of stringent criteria.

The five programs, as described at http://www.fema.gov/, are:

(1) The State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) with $842 million allocated. This program "...provides funds to build capabilities at the state and local levels and to implement the goals and objectives included in state homeland security strategies and initiatives in their State Preparedness Report."

(2) The Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) for $832.5 million. It "...focuses on enhancing regional preparedness in major metropolitan areas."

(3) Operation Stonegarden (OPSG), the intent of which is to "...enhance cooperation and coordination among local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in a joint mission to secure the United States borders..." will receive $60 million.

(4) The Metropolitan Medical Response System (MMRS) "...which supports the integration of emergency management, health and medical systems into a coordinated response to mass casualty incidents caused by any hazard," was allocated $39.36 million.

(5) The Citizens Corps Program (CCP), whose "...mission is to bring community and government leaders together to coordinate community involvement in emergency preparedness, planning, mitigation, response and recovery," has $12.48 million.

You can learn more about these programs at www.fema.gov/government/grant/hsgp/.

Each of these programs has dedicated funds "towards law enforcement terrorism prevention-oriented planning, organization, training, exercise, and equipment activities including activities which support the development and operation of fusion centers." During these training activities, and of course, during times of disaster, personnel will need to be fed and replenished. When preparing your emergency preparedness plans, don't forget to include HeaterMeals.

HeaterMeals Self Heating Meals and Meal Kits are an attractive alternative to MREs. Each HeaterMeals entree is 50% larger than MREs, with 40% to 60% less sodium, and fewer calories. In addition, our patented self-heating technology ensures that you can have a hot meal anytime, anyplace.

Our Self-Heating Meals and Meal Kits provide you with flexibility during your planning, as well. We provide products with extended storage options such as our HeaterMeals 3 (up to 3 years) and HeaterMeals EX (up to 5 years), so that a hot HeaterMeals entree will be there when you need it most. If storing HeaterMeals at your facility is a challenge for you, then store it at ours. We offer a Vendor Managed Inventory system which allows our customers to store their HeaterMeals inventories at our 114,000 sq. ft. Dry Storage Warehouse until you need them.

The HeaterMeals Plus Meal Kits provide a complete meal, including a beverage, for hard-working emergency responders, and those involved in training exercises. The Cafe2Go Self-Heating Beverage Kit will help replenish personnel by heating 18 cups of your favorite hot beverage, coffee, tea or hot cocoa.

With our healthier, more nutritious entrees, longer shelf-life options, meal kits and Cafe2Go Self-Heating Beverage Kits, and a Vendor Managed Inventory system, HeaterMeals is the logical, ideal choice for feeding during training and emergencies. You can learn more about HeaterMeals by visiting http://www.heatermeals.com/. You can also e-mail us at info@heatermeals.com.

Don't forget to visit us at Facebook and Twitter where you can find updates and news about HeaterMeals.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

The Importance of Homestyle Food During Emergencies and Disasters

2009-11-24T10:09:00.000-08:00

I recently read a newsletter from an emergency management consultant. The topic of Lucien Canton's article was "Comfort Food for Disaster Victims." He maintains that providing food that victims are used to eating, can be as important to their well-being as supplying shelter and blankets. In times of disaster, when people are looking at the loss of their home and possesions, a familar tasting meal can offer comfort.

It used to be that relief organizations served whatever food they had on hand. Often it was bland, and most likely culturally inapropriate in ethnic areas. While these groups were performing noble work, they did not consider the effects their food had on those eating it. Consider that you've been through some type of crisis, experienced a loss, and now you're eating food that is not only unfamiliar, but just tastes bad. It is one more negative experience that you have to endure. This certainly does not help morale.

Canton writes, "...Having a meal you reall enjoy doesn't make up for losing your home and possessions to a fire but it does help with the shock and pain of the loss. It also suggests that those providing the relief see you as an individual." Canton isn't suggesting that every crisis meal needs to be catered, or needs to be culturally appropriate to every victim, every time. "I am suggesting, however, that we recognize that food can be an important comfort factor in times of crisis and that, whenever possible, emergency feeding operations include culturally appropriate food."

Among other suggestions, Canton urged relief organizations to, "Consider options that offer wider menu choices such as Heater Meals or similar products." HeaterMeals offers eight different lunch and dinner entrees and three breakfast entrees.

Our meal kits (HeaterMeals Plus, and HeaterMeals 3) come with name brand snacks and drinks. HeaterMeals are also shelf-stable. Our HeaterMeals Plus has a one-year shelf-life, and HeaterMeals Entrees have up to a two-year life. For longer storage periods, HeaterMeals 3 (three-year shelf life) and HeaterMeals EX Designed for EXtended Storage (up to five-years) are also available.

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals

"How Does it Work?"

2009-10-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

That's probably the most commonly asked question when someone encounters a steaming, hot HeaterMeal for the first time - "How does it work?" HeaterMeals are not your run-of-the-mill product. Everyone understands a lawn mower, or has seen a can opener used. But a self-heating meal?? What is that? How does it work??

HeaterMeals are the original Self-Heating Meal. Without the need for electricity or an open flame, a HeaterMeal can raise the ambient temperature of the entree 100 degrees in just ten minutes, giving you a piping hot meal, anytime, anyplace.

"But How does it work?"

Every HeaterMeals entree or meal kit uses the TRUETECH patented Flameless Ration Heater (FRH) to heat the meals. The FRH is made of food grade iron and magnesium powder. It's the same stuff you would find in a vitamin supplement, so it's totally safe. When the iron and magnesium powder comes in contact with salt water, it begins an exo-thermic reaction. The by-product of that reaction is heat. That heat, then, is what heats a HeaterMeal.

The TRUETECH patented FRH was originally developed for the U.S. Army nearly 20 years ago. Since 1990, over 1.5 Billion heaters have been used as part of the military's "Meals Ready to Eat" (MRE) program. The FRH heaters are used easily in situations where open flame is prohibited or not recommended. This makes them ideal for military use, campers, hunters, boaters, or anyone interested in emergency preparedness supplies.

That's how it works. It's a cool product, that gets really hot!

Bob Turner
Marketing Manager
HeaterMeals