The meal deal: a lunchtime staple for millions of Brits. But is this grab-and-go convenience truly a good deal? Channel 5’s new documentary, “Meal Deals: Are They Really Worth It?” aims to unpack this lunchtime obsession, exploring everything from the potential savings and nutritional value to the environmental impact. Consumer journalist Harry Wallop leads the charge, consulting restaurant critics, nutritionists, and the meal-deal-loving public to determine which combination reigns supreme.
With meal deal sales nearly doubling in the past two years – the average Brit now consumes a staggering 73 per year – the documentary examines the phenomenon’s rise, from its humble beginnings in a Boots chemist back in 1999 to its current ubiquitous status. The options can be overwhelming, too – with Tesco alone boasting over 20 million meal deal combinations.
Wallop doesn’t just crunch numbers; he gets his hands dirty (and probably a little sticky). He’ll be putting some of the most calorie-packed combinations to the test and investigating just how fresh those meal deal ingredients truly are. The documentary also examines the environmental costs, from packaging waste to food waste. And, because this is Britain, we even meet a devoted meal deal fan who sports a tattoo of their favorite combo.
Find out the surprising truth behind this lunchtime staple. “Meal Deals: Are They Really Worth It?” airs Wednesday, March 26th at 8:00 pm on Channel 5.
