Now the UK is on lockdown, fewer visits to the supermarket would definitely be a good idea right now. So how can you make your grocery shop stretch that bit further? The key is to reduce the amount of fresh, highly perishable items you buy without compromising on nutritional quality. Supporting your immune system with a healthy diet is more important now than ever. Here are our top 5 tips:
Make full use of your freezer
If you normally buy a loaf of bread, buy two and put one in the freezer. Frozen minced beef and fish that don’t need defrosting before cooking can be a quick and easy source of protein. The good news is frozen fruits and vegetables often have just as many vitamins and minerals — and sometimes more — compared to fresh. Milk can also be frozen (not if it’s in a glass bottle as it may break). This is a good option if you’re not a fan of long-life and plant-based milk.
Embrace legumes
Canned and dried beans and lentils last for years and are highly nutritious. If you’re a meat-eater, then this could be a good opportunity to experiment with some vegetarian dishes. A can of lentils can replace the beef in a shepherd’s pie, or some mixed beans can be the basis of a chilli.
Don’t buy pre-prepared veg and salad
As well as being cheaper, the whole veg lasts a lot longer. A bag of salad leaves will last a couple of days (how many times have you thrown out a half-eaten bag of slimy leaves?) whereas a head of lettuce will easily last a week.
Store food properly
Knowing how to store food properly can dramatically extend its life. Potatoes are a good example. Left in a plastic bag and exposed to light they will quickly go mouldy, green and start sprouting. Instead, take them out of the plastic bag removing any that are damaged, place in a basket or cardboard box and store in a cool dark place. Potatoes stored this way will keep for several weeks, even months.
Create a plan
Before you do your shop, create a plan for 2 weeks’ worth of breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks and make a list of everything you need to buy. As most of the meals won’t consist of highly perishable ingredients you don’t need to assign meals to specific days – you can decide on the day depending on what you’re in the mood for and how much time you have available. Most importantly, ensure your plan is realistic and full of tasty meals that will support both your mental and physical wellbeing during this challenging time.
