Two-Thirds Order Takeaway Weekly: Too Busy for Cooking

HelloFresh
  • Google searches for 'quick recipes' have increased 22% in the last month as being 'busy' continues to be a constant lifestyle for many across the nation.
  • Offering insight into the eating habits of working professionals, new research reveals over two-thirds (68%) order takeaway every week whilst 54% eat out every week due to lack of supplies and time to cook at home.
  • An expert from HelloFresh reveals top tips on how busy workers can still create nutritious, home-cooked meas that don't take too much time or effort.

In 2023, we're living in a time where individuals have their main hustles, side hustles and passion projects whilst raising families all at once, but what effect is this non-stop lifestyle having on the nation's eating habits?

Healthy, nutritious meals are imperative when it comes to fuelling a busy lifestyle, however, new data from HelloFresh reveals that the busy lifestyles of working Australians mean over two-thirds (68%) have to order takeaway food at some point during the week because they don't have the time or supplies to cook a meal at home. What's more, over half (54%) of working Australians say they have to eat out at a restaurant at some point in the week for the same reasons.

The survey revealed that over 1 in 6 working Australians are unable to tear themselves away from their work, and don't sit down to dinner until after 8.30pm. Employees in administration roles are deemed the worst culprits as they don't sit down for dinner until after 10pm.

Finally, it seems that working Australians don't leave their busy lives at the office with 1 in 5 saying they have three people to prepare meals for when they're home from work.

Hannah Gilbert, Senior Director of Product Development at HelloFresh, provides top tips on how to cook quick, nutritionally-balanced meals when you're a busy working professional:

"At HelloFresh, we don't believe you need to compromise nutrition for convenience - you can have both. By choosing recipes designed with ease, speed and taste in mind, you can still fit in nutritious food whatever your situation.

"Some of the easiest ways to ensure you still have the time to create exciting dinners at home despite your busy lifestyle can include;

  1. Opting For One-Pot Recipes: these recipes are put together with the thought of throwing a concoction of ingredients together with minimal utensils and even less washing up

  2. Quick Recipes: some of our most delicious recipes from HelloFresh can be prepped and cooked in 30 minutes or less - the ideal answer for midweek dinners

  3. Family-Friendly Meals: choose fuss-free favourites that will keep the whole family happy, reducing the number of meals you need to cook for even the fussiest eaters

  4. Make The Most of Leftovers: if you've got surplus food left over from mealtime then don't let it go to waste. Instead, save it for your busier evenings or even take it to work for a quick and easy lunch option

  5. Plan The Week Ahead: don't let the hustle and bustle get the best of you. Take some time at the beginning of your week to plan your meals around your work rota, your home schedule and your plans. Whilst you can't plan for everything, this should minimise the impact of your hectic life on your diet."

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