Ready-to-eat (RTE) foods have been part of the human lexicon for centuries. Whether it is a traveler on a long journey across the Silk Road back in antiquity to trade their goods, a factory worker in the early 20th century who was not allowed to take a break during their 12-hour shift, or a soldier on the battlefield, the ability to find foods that can be consumed quickly and without the need for further safety interventions has been critical to the success of their respective missions.

On a less dramatic scale, as a parent with two young children under the age of five, I am constantly finding myself in situations where the kids' hunger comes on at the most inopportune times (i.e., while rushing to dance practice, which we're already late for). Luckily, a quick stop at a convenience store on the way can provide a wide variety of RTE food options for each of my little ones. In modern society, the concept of immediate gratification has become a tenable expectation for many. A person can think in the morning of an item they need, purchase that item, and receive it on their doorstep within a couple of hours. RTE foods, although not a modern concept, fit in perfectly with the consumer's need for immediate gratification and, therefore, have become staple offerings at many food destinations.