PANTRY
ESSENTIALS
Making healthy food choices doesn’t have to be expensive – it starts with knowing what to buy and how to build meals that nourish and last. The National School Pantry Network has developed a simple, budget-friendly guide to help schools and families make the most of their pantry.
Check what you already have before shopping and plan your meals around it to reduce waste and save money. When stocking your pantry, consider affordable, long-lasting staples like pasta, rice, tinned beans, lentils, and canned vegetables. These can be the base of many nutritious meals that are quick to prepare and easy on the budget.
Be mindful of best-before and use-by dates, rotating pantry items so older products are used first. If you’re shopping on a budget, consider buying in bulk and opting for supermarket own brands. Look for culturally appropriate ingredients that can help you create familiar and comforting meals for your family.
Explore simple, flavourful recipes that rely on pantry staples to stretch your budget while still providing nutritious and tasty meals for your family.
Here are some suggested pantry staples.
Energise
Wholegrains & Carbs
Build the base of your meals with fibre-rich, filling carbohydrates that give long-lasting energy.
- Porridge oats
- Wholemeal bread or pitta
- Potatoes (skin on!)
- Brown rice
- Wholewheat pasta
- Own-brand high-fibre, low-sugar cereals
💡 Wholegrains keep you full for longer and help avoid energy crashes.
Feel Good
Fruit & Vegetables
Aim for 5-a-day by adding colour to every meal. Frozen and in-season options are great value.
- Carrots, onions, cabbage, broccoli
- Frozen peas, sweetcorn, or mixed veg
- Apples, bananas, pears, satsumas
- Tinned tomatoes
- Tinned fruit (pears, peaches, pineapples)
- Frozen berries
💡 Slice up fruit and veg to make them more appealing and reduce waste.
Feel Full
Protein & Pulses
Protein is essential for growing bodies. These affordable items support growth, development, and satisfaction.
- Eggs
- Plain yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese
- Canned or frozen fish
- Skinless chicken thighs, turkey mince
- Beans, lentils, chickpeas
- Semi-skimmed milk or dairy alternatives
💡 Stretch meals further by mixing meat with pulses or lentils.
Ingredients For a Well-Stocked Kitchen
Pantry Staples
Keep your cupboards stocked with basics that can be used again and again. Flavour is key! Just a few simple herbs and spices can transform a dish.
- Flour, bread, tea, coffee
- Stock cubes, tinned tomatoes and pulses
- Plant-based spread, milk
- Soy sauce
- Medium curry powder, cumin
- Chilli flakes or powder
- Oregano
💡Tinned tomatoes are your best friend – use in sauces, stews, soups! Use dried herbs and spices instead of salt. They’re cheaper and last longer!
Download our Weekly Food Planner and organise your weekly menu and grocery lists.
