New state-subsidised restaurants aim to tackle food inequality: here’s how you can cut your own food bills too

With food prices continuing to rise and more families feeling the pinch, the government is rolling out new measures to tackle food insecurity across the UK.

What’s the new scheme?

Next summer, state-subsidised restaurants will open in Dundee and Nottingham, offering affordable, nutritious meals in a welcoming, social setting. The scheme is especially aimed at supporting deprived households with children.

These restaurants are part of a wider £8.5m funding package designed to reduce food inequality.

Other initiatives include a mapping tool that will guide Liverpool’s ‘Queen of Greens’ mobile greengrocer to areas where social housing residents struggle to access fresh produce. In some areas, households will receive vouchers to buy fruit and vegetables directly from the bus.

10-year health plan

The project comes on the heels of the government’s 10-year health plan, which includes plans to fine supermarkets that fail to promote healthier food options.

Additional projects will look at the role of community food markets in Glasgow’s ‘food deserts’, find ways to increase uptake of free school meals, and provide extra support such as cooking classes and recipe boxes.

How to cut your food costs

While these programmes aim to support vulnerable communities, rising food costs are hitting households across the country. If you’re feeling the squeeze, here’s how to start reducing your food bills right now, without compromising on quality or nutrition.

• Plan your meals - create weekly menus and shopping lists to avoid impulse buys and food waste.
• Buy seasonal and local - seasonal produce is usually cheaper and fresher and  local markets often have great deals.
• Shop smart - use supermarket own brands, check for discounts and bulk-buy staples you use often.
• Cook from scratch - pre-packaged and convenience foods cost more while cooking at home saves money and boosts nutrition.
• Batch cook and freeze - make large portions and freeze leftovers to save time and money later.
• Reduce meat consumption - meat is expensive so try plant-based meals a few times a week to cut costs.
• Grow your own herbs or veggies - even a small windowsill herb garden can reduce food bill.
• Use leftovers creatively - reinvent yesterday’s meals into soups, stews or even stir-fries.
• Minimise food waste - store food properly and get creative with wilting veggies and overripe fruit.
• Use cashback and voucher apps - take advantage of offers and rebates when shopping.

With a bit of planning and creativity, it’s possible to keep your fridge full and your budget on track.