As the economic crisis has taken a toll on the lives of every individual in the country regardless of class or financial status, the need to ration food and be mindful of your daily consumption has become of vital importance. 7 Star brings you seven meal hacks to help better manage the limited stocks of food in your kitchen.

• Freezing Leftovers

Have you ever had second thoughts about throwing away those delicious pancakes that you prepared for breakfast with your favourite 7 Star All Purpose Flour? Why throw those out when freezing is an option? Leftovers like pancakes can always be kept frozen until you decide to shove them in the oven for a few minutes and serve them to the family as fresh as they were the first time.

• Planning is Key

Whether the country is on the brink of an economic crisis or not, meal planning is always key to reducing food waste in a household. A rule of thumb is to plan your weekly menu so that takeout rarely becomes an option, saving unnecessary costs and food wastage.

• Eggs are a Lifesaver

Did you know that eggs carry much versatility in a meal plan? Eggs are an affordable option that also carries nutrients to keep your day going. In fact, one egg carries 6 grams of protein and is below 100 calories. So why not fry a fully loaded, budget-friendly omelette for a meal?

• The Pre-Meal Snack Secret

Pre-meal snacks rich in proteins carry the ability to fill you up before a meal so that a lighter breakfast, lunch or dinner can be prepared. A hard boiled egg or boiled vegetables that you had stored inside your fridge are some of the pre-meal snacks that come highly recommended.

• Healthy Sides

Transform your meal into a healthy dose of good food as you add in more in-season local produce as side dishes and avoid too many processed foods. This method can help you save your health and wealth at the same time.

• Beans Can Work Magic

Beans can be the perfect alternative to meat. You do not need to completely cut down on your daily or weekly meat consumption, but why not replace a portion of it with beans, the perfect filler item? More protein, more fill!

• Try Soup

Why not save your food close to expiry by cooking up a delicious meal of soup for dinner? An ideal way to avoid food wastage is to use leftover meat with some vegetables and prepare a bowl of steaming soup that is both healthy and cost-effective.