As you may have guessed we are big fans of quality ready meals here at Root Kitchen.  Whilst we are confident cooks and enjoy cooking meals from scratch there are times during the week when vegan ready meals can offer a quick and convenient solution for busy people who are looking to stick to their plant based diet. There are, however, many misconceptions about ready meals that have led to them having a bad rap. Here we'll debunk some of the most common myths about ready meals and give you the real truth behind them.

Myth 1: Ready meals are unhealthy and contain high levels of salt, sugar, and preservatives.

Ready meals have received a lot of criticism over the years, with many people claiming that they are unhealthy and contain high levels of salt, sugar, and preservatives. However, this is not always the case. While some ready meals may indeed contain high levels of these ingredients, there are now many options available that are specifically designed to be healthier, containing lower levels of salt, sugar, and preservatives, and using more natural preservatives.

For example, some ready meals are made with whole grains, plant proteins, and fresh vegetables, providing a balanced and nutritious meal. There are also options available that are low in sodium, using herbs and spices instead of salt to add flavor. Additionally, many ready meal companies, Root Kitchen included, use natural preservatives, such as vinegar and citric acid, to extend the shelf life of our meals without compromising their nutritional value.

It is important to keep in mind that not all ready meals are created equal, and it is really important to read the labels and choose meals that meet your health goals. This means paying attention to the ingredient list, nutritional information, and any certifications or seals of approval, such as “organic” or “non-GMO.”

By taking the time to choose the right ready meal, you can enjoy the convenience of a quick and easy meal while still maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. So, don’t be discouraged by the myths about ready meals, and take the time to find options that meet your health needs.

Myth 2: Ready meals are not as nutritious as home-cooked meals.

The myth that ready meals are not as nutritious as home-cooked meals has been widely spread, but this is not always true. Just like with home-cooked meals, the nutritional value of ready meals varies widely. Some ready meals can be highly nutritious, offering a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

At Root Kitchen all of our meals are made in small batches, by chefs, using real ingredients using processes that are very similar to how you would cook at home.

However, there are also mass-produced ready meals that out there that are made with low-quality ingredients and lack a well-rounded nutritional profile. For example, some ready meals are high in unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars, providing little nutritional value.

The key to choosing a nutritious ready meal is to look for products that are made with quality ingredients and have a well-rounded nutritional profile. This means looking for options that are high in fiber, low in unhealthy fats, and provide a good balance of essential vitamins and minerals.

It is also important to consider the portion size when evaluating the nutritional value of a ready meal. Some ready meals can be high in calories and portion sizes may not match recommended serving sizes, leading to overeating and weight gain.

So to sum up, ready meals can be just as nutritious as home-cooked meals if you choose wisely. The key is to choose products that are made with quality ingredients and have a well-rounded nutritional profile. By taking the time to find the right ready meal, you can enjoy the convenience of a quick and easy meal while still maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.

Myth 3: Vegan Ready meals are expensive.

The myth that vegan ready meals are expensive has been around for some time, but this is not always true. While it is true that some ready meals can be more expensive than home-cooked meals, there are now many affordable options available that offer high-quality, nutritious meals at a fraction of the cost of eating out or getting a takeaway.

For example, many supermarkets now offer their own line of budget-friendly ready meals, made with fresh ingredients and carefully balanced to provide a nutritious meal at an affordable price. There are also options available that are designed to be cost-effective, using less expensive ingredients and larger portion sizes to provide more food for the money.

'Too expensive' is also another claim that is levelled at plant based food in general that is why we have made it out mission, to make healthy and nutritious vegan ready meals at a price point that is comparable with supermarket own label options.

Ready meals can also be a more cost-effective option than eating out, as they allow you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without having to pay the high prices that often come with eating out or getting a takeaway.

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of ready meals can vary depending on the brand, ingredients, and size of the portion, so it is crucial to compare different options and choose the one that best meets your needs and budget.

There you go, the myth that ready meals are expensive is not always true!  There are now many affordable options available that offer high-quality, nutritious meals at a fraction of the cost of eating out. By choosing wisely and comparing different options, it is possible to find a vegan ready meal that is both convenient and budget-friendly.

Myth 4: Ready meals lack flavour and taste.

The myth that ready meals lack flavour and taste has been a common criticism in the past, but this is no longer the case.  With the advance in food technology, many ready meals now offer a delicious and satisfying taste that is comparable to home-cooked meals.

Manufacturers have taken steps to improve the taste of ready meals by using high-quality ingredients, carefully crafted recipes, and innovative cooking techniques. They have also expanded their ranges to cater to different tastes and preferences, making it possible to find a ready meal that suits your need whatever you are craving.

For example, there are ready meals available that use fresh herbs and spices to create a delicious and flavourful taste, while others focus on using high-quality plant proteins and vegetables to provide a satisfying and nutritious meal. Some ready meals, including ours, are also designed to replicate popular dishes, like lasagne or shepherd's pie, giving you the taste and convenience of a home-cooked meal in minutes.

It is worth noting that the taste and flavour of ready meals can also depend on personal preferences. Some people may prefer a bold and spicy taste, while others may prefer a mild and subtle flavor. It is important to try different options and find the ones that suit your taste buds the best.

I hope this shows you why myth that ready meals lack flavour and taste is no longer true. With the advancement in food technology and the expanded offerings available, it is now possible to find a delicious and satisfying ready meal that is comparable to home-cooked meals.

Myth 5: Ready meals are not environmentally friendly.

The myth that ready meals are not environmentally friendly has been a growing concern in recent years. While it is true that ready meals often come in single-use packaging, there are now many options available that are more environmentally friendly.

For example, some ready meals are packaged in biodegradable or recyclable materials, reducing the impact on the environment. These packaging options are made from materials that are broken down naturally over time, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

We use cardboard trays for our online orders and a recycled CPET tray for our retail orders.  These trays are really cool as they come in some really random colours depending on whatever colours the recycled materials where previously and gives the trays another life.

In addition, more ready meal companies are now working to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices. This includes reducing the amount of packaging used, sourcing ingredients from local and sustainable sources, and investing in renewable energy sources to power their facilities.  These are all things we subscribe to and hopefully more companies will continue this trend.

While there is still work to be done to make ready meals more environmentally friendly, the industry is a whole is making strides in the right direction. By choosing environmentally friendly ready meals, consumers can help support these efforts and reduce the impact of their meals on the environment.

In conclusion, ready meals are a convenient and often affordable option for busy individuals and families. They offer a quick and easy solution for those who are short on time, but still want to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.

Despite the bad reputation that ready meals have had in the past, many ready meals are now designed to be healthier and more nutritious, offering a balance of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. This is a far cry from the high levels of salt, sugar, and preservatives that ready meals were once criticised for.

Additionally, there are now many vegan ready meals available that are environmentally friendly and offer a delicious taste. These meals provide a convenient solution to stick to your plant based diet that doesn't come at a cost of your health or the environment.

So, the next time you are in need of a quick and convenient plant based meal, consider a vegan ready meal and challenge the myths about them. By taking the time to read labels and choose options that meet your health and environmental requirements, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious vegan meal that fits your busy lifestyle.