Takeaways and food delivery

The way takeaways and food delivery online orders are promoted is designed to make you want to pick more. Planning beforehand what you want to order and sticking to just what you need can help. 

Tips when ordering takeaways or food deliveries online

Portion sizes can often be larger than what you might make at home. Choosing only one menu item or planning to share can be a helpful way to manage portions.

Making your own sides, such as boiled rice or steamed vegetables, can be a more affordable option and a healthier alternative to takeaway sides, which are often high in calories, fat and salt.

It can be tempting to click for several extras, side dishes or dips, especially when there are special offers. However, choosing just what you need, can save money and reduce food waste.

Where possible, skip the disposable cutlery that often comes with takeaway or delivery orders. Using your own cutlery at home can help reduce plastic waste.

You don't have to finish everything in one meal, saving some for later is a good option. Microwaveable containers can be handy for storage and mean any leftovers can be used the next day, if stored correctly. You could also add some potatoes or rice to left over curry, or bulk out a sauce with vegetables and serve with pasta.

It's important to eat leftovers within 2 days and only reheat them once, making sure they are steaming hot all the way through. Read our tips on healthier and cheaper ways to cook for more advice on using leftovers or our guidance on safe food storage.