Meal planning basics

Planning your meals can help you save money, reduce waste and make healthy eating feel more manageable. It can also make food shopping quicker and help you feel more organised during the week.

Start with what you already have

Before writing a shopping list, check your cupboards, fridge and freezer. Using ingredients you already have can help avoid waste and stop you buying the same thing twice.

Keep your plan simple

You do not need to plan complicated meals. Choose a few easy options that fit your routine and budget. Repeating some meals during the week can also help reduce costs.

Useful steps when planning

• Check what food you already have at home
• Write a shopping list before you go to the shop
• Plan meals that use similar ingredients
• Include simple lunches and breakfasts as well as evening meals

Think about leftovers

Cooking extra portions can save both time and money. Leftovers can be used for lunch the next day or frozen for another meal later in the week.

Build habits over time

Meal planning gets easier with practice. Even planning just a few meals each week can make a real difference to your spending and your confidence in making healthier choices.