Prepackaged Foods… Good or Downright Evil?

The last time I visited my local Wal-Mart, I picked up 2 or 3 family size frozen meals.  They were not cheap, coming in around $10 each.  I guiltily placed them in my buggy.  I used to preach against these.  Then I realized, if I don’t have something like that, and we are rushed for time, we go out to each.  For a family of 7, a cheap run to McDonald’s can cost up to $35.  We rarely go to McDonald’s and generally choose Chili’s or Fridays instead. 

Ideally, I should premake a few meals to freeze, and I often do.  But, I also have 4 children, 5 if you count my husband.  I also have a mentally handicapped brother I take care of, and home school my oldest daughter.  So, that does not leave a lot of time for freezer cooking.  I know what people say, “Cook an extra _________ (insert whatever you happen to be cooking) at night when you have that for supper.”   That is a GREAT idea!  I have done this and it works well.  It is definitely a time saver however, it does take more time.  I run short on time on a regular basis and sometimes feel proud just to throw together sandwiches and chips for supper.  I give myself extra points if I manage to cut up some fresh veggies and serve them with ranch! 

Sometimes, feeding our families for less means that we have a Stouffer’s Lasagna in the freezer, therefore saving us the cost of going out to eat.  I don’t suggest anyone serve these on a regular basis.  They are full of preservatives and sodium, but in moderation, they can really be a money saver.  I don’t believe they are evil, I do believe that prepackaged food can be used as a very useful tool!