Reference: IRS Notice 2017-54

The rate for meals and incidentals (M&IE) has been raised to $68 for high cost localities under the IRS high/low method.  Like all business meals, the net deduction is one half of that amount.

Example: Sole proprietor is on a six day business trip. M&IE under CONUS is $68 * 6 * 1/2 = $204 as the net deduction on the tax return.  M&IE is in lieu of actual expenses for meals, tips and other incidental travel charges.