You may think that in order to eat healthfully you need to have expert chef skills and/or have the time everyday to make meals from scratch that are picture-perfect and worthy to be posted on social media. This is not the only option: Packaged foods provide a great alternative to still eat a nutritious, balanced meal without spending your precious free time in the kitchen. Many packaged food options are ready-to-eat or can be prepared in 15 minutes or less using the microwave or oven.

Here’s a real-life example: When preparing breakfast, yogurt, microwaveable oatmeal, or granola bars are great options that can be taken on the go. Add some canned or frozen fruit and you will have a balanced breakfast and catch an extra few minutes of sleep.

Packaged foods can also decrease time spent food shopping so you can spend your precious time doing something besides wandering aimlessly throughout the crowded supermarket aisles. Time is on your side when you incorporate packaged foods into meal-planning for an overall balanced diet. 

Don’t forget to check out the other parts to the series!
Packaged Foods Video
Part 1: Nutrition Enhancements
Part 3: Perishability and Convenience