Parents can save cash on school lunches by avoiding wasteful convenience
Posted August 28, 2018 11:13 am.
Last Updated August 28, 2018 11:14 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The new school year is just around the corner and kids’ school lunches will again be a major part of your weekly routine and bills.
Those bills can quickly add up given that food prices are not dropping, and especially if you prioritize convenience, says Kim Shiffman, editor of Today’s Parent.
Even though it’s less convenient, you really can make a difference buying things as a whole rather than in individual prepackaged cups or packs. Buying in bulk and prepping the food can also save money in the long-term, according to Shiffman.
“Using raw instead of prepackaged ingredients can save you so much money,” Shiffman says. For example, “buying a brick of cheddar and cutting your own sticks instead of cheese strings” is one way to rein in food costs.
She says parents should also consider investing in reusable containers since they save money in the long run.
“A lot of parents still use disposals like zip-top and paper bags, and disposable water bottles that they just throw away every day,” Shiffman says. “And that really adds up.”
Other cost cutting options, while prices remain relatively high, are tubs of yogurt and cheaper protein like lentils or beans, instead of meat.
Today’s Parent is owned by Rogers, the parent company of NEWS 1130.
