The meals I tried had a lower protein content, containing between 9g-19g (although across the range the protein content in some meals is as high as 40.8g/serve) As a vegetarian it is important for me to make sure I am consuming enough protein in my diet, and so it would have been great to see a higher amount of protein included in the vegetarian range. Research shows that we should be aiming for at least 25g of protein with each meal.1
There was an adequate amount of carbohydrates included in each meal, derived from wholefood sources including sweet potato, pumpkin and brown rice. These sources provide a steady release of energy as opposed to a ‘quick hit’, often experienced after eating refined carbohydrates (e.g., white pasta).
The fat content of each meal was good, with the highest amount of fat in the tofu laksa noodles (23g). The source of fat is always important to consider, as some readymade meals may contain high amounts of saturated fats (the not good for you fats!). Cold pressed Australian made Extra Virgin Olive oil was used in each meal which is a high-quality fat as well as peanuts and pepitas which provide beneficial micronutrients.
There was an excellent selection of vegetables with each meal; at least four different types. The vegetables were also vibrant in colour indicating the freshness of the produce. Some other readymade meals (such as Herbidoor) contain less vegetables and more carbohydrates to ‘bulk’ up the portion sizes.