In the last few decades the popularity of ready meals has risen dramatically. They provide a quick, convenient way for busy families to eat. But as many nutritionists question the quality and nutritional value of pre-packaged ‘TV dinners’ are they actually a poor choice for family meals?
Yes – Dominic
Ready meals really are a lazy way to feed your family. I appreciate that people live busy lives but that is no excuse for not cooking a proper evening meal. Pre-packaged meals from supermarkets promise convenience, taste and nutrition but rarely deliver. The ingredients used in ready meals are usually the cheapest that the manufacturers can get away with – meaning that they will never be as nutritious as a home cooked meal. In addition, they are often packed full of salt, sugar and fat to make them taste more appealing. At least when you cook your own meals at home you know exactly what has gone into them and can choose the best ingredients.
I think ready meals have also contributed to a breakdown in family values. In the past, the family would have gathered around the dinner table at least once a day to enjoy a meal, providing the opportunity for children and parents to catch up with one another and chat about their day. Now, thanks to ready meals, children can simply pop a box in the microwave and take their meal up to their bedroom to eat – meaning that parents and children often don’t interact at all during the day.
It’s also worth noting that many teenagers no longer know how to cook a meal from scratch. Basic cooking skills have been lost and I think ready meals have played a big part in this. Yes, cooking from scratch may take a little longer – but the results are well worth it.
No – Annie
I think ready meals are a wonderful invention and I rely on them for all of our mid-week dinners. With three children and a full-time job, there’s no way I can find the time to cook an evening meal from scratch when I get home!
We have a really busy family life and I never know who is going to be in for dinner one night to the next. My teenage daughter will often stay at a friend’s house, whilst the younger children have after-school activities such as ballet, swimming and football most evenings. There’s no point me slaving away making a home cooked meal when it might not get eaten. With ready meals everyone can just help themselves when they want.
I know people think ready meals aren’t very nutritious but they are better than crisps and chocolate – which is what my teenager would reach for if she didn’t have ready meals available. Also, most ready meals now give nutritional values on the box so it’s easy to choose the healthier options.
Things have changed since the 1950s and parents today simply don’t have the time to be making meals from scratch each evening. Buying ready meals saves time shopping and cooking – giving my family valuable time to spend on more enjoyable activities. I don’t think there is anything wrong with turning to ready meals if you are too busy to cook – they are tasty, convenient and good value.
