Eating well on a budget

You and your family can eat healthily on a budget. Here are some ways to get started:

1. Write out a weekly shopping list. Planning your meals and snacks for the week means you will have all the ingredients and will be less likely to buy unneeded items.
2. Buy seasonal fruit and vegetables. They are usually cheaper.
3. Try taking a packed lunch to work or school and always have healthy snacks on hand.
4. Use leftover meals the next day or freeze them to reduce waste.
5. Soups and stews are a great way to use up leftovers.
6. Look out for store own brand items which can be cheaper than branded options
7. A cheaper source of protein are beans and lentils. These can be bought dried or tinned and added to soups, stews, curries or one pot meals.
8. Avoid relying on take away food. These are often expensive and high in fat. Instead try recreating your favourite meal at home.
9. A cheaper alternative to fresh fruit and vegetables could be tinned or frozen. These count towards your five a day.
10. Look out for reduced fresh food that needs to be used that day.

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