In today’s world where grocery prices seem to climb higher every week, finding ways to feed yourself and your family nutritious meals without breaking the bank has become something of an art form. I remember standing in the checkout line last month, watching my total climb past $200 for what felt like barely a week’s worth of food. That moment sparked my journey into the world of budget meal planning – specifically, the $5 meal plan approach that has transformed how I shop, cook, and eat.
If you’re tired of spending a small fortune on food or throwing away spoiled ingredients you never got around to using, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating and maintaining a 5 Dollar Meal Plan that’s not just affordable but delicious, nutritious, and surprisingly diverse.
Understanding the $5 Meal Plan Concept
A $5 meal plan is exactly what it sounds like – a strategic approach to planning, shopping for, and preparing meals that cost around $5 or less per meal (not necessarily per serving). While that might sound impossible given today’s food prices, I’ve discovered it’s absolutely achievable with the right approach.
The concept isn’t new – frugal cooks have been stretching dollars for generations. What makes modern $5 meal planning different is the systematic approach that combines old-school thriftiness with contemporary nutritional knowledge and cooking techniques.
The beauty of this approach is its flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family of six, the principles can be scaled accordingly. The goal isn’t deprivation or eating nothing but ramen noodles – it’s about maximizing every dollar while still enjoying food that’s satisfying and healthy.
Many people assume budget meal planning means processed food and nutritional compromises. I thought the same until I tried it myself. In reality, a well-designed $5 meal plan often results in healthier eating because it emphasizes whole ingredients and smart portioning and reduces impulse purchases of processed foods.
Benefits of a $5 Meal Plan
When I first started my $5 meal plan journey, I was primarily motivated by saving money. Little did I know the benefits would extend far beyond my wallet.
Financial Advantages
The most obvious benefit is financial. The average American household spends between $600-$1,200 monthly on groceries, depending on family size and location. By implementing a $5 meal plan, many families (including mine) have cut their food budget by 30-40%.
Let’s break down the math:
| Meal Plan Type | Daily Cost | Weekly Cost | Monthly Cost | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional | $30-40 | $210-280 | $900-1,200 | Baseline |
| $5 Meal Plan | $15-20 | $105-140 | $450-600 | $5,400-7,200 |
Those savings can go toward paying down debt, building emergency funds, or funding other life goals – all while still eating well.
Health Benefits
Surprisingly, budget meal planning often leads to healthier eating habits. When you plan meals intentionally rather than grabbing convenience foods, you naturally incorporate more whole ingredients. My family has increased our vegetable consumption significantly since starting our $5 meal plan because seasonal produce is often one of the most affordable options.
Planning also helps control portions. Restaurant meals and takeout typically provide much larger portions than needed, contributing to overeating. Home-cooked meals from your $5 plan tend to be more appropriately sized.
Reduced Food Waste
Before implementing my meal plan, I was shocked to realize how much food I was throwing away each week – wilted produce, forgotten leftovers, expired dairy products. The EPA estimates that American households waste approximately 30-40% of their food supply.
With a structured meal plan, you buy exactly what you need and have a plan for using it. My household food waste has decreased by about 80% since implementing our $5 meal plan system.
Time Savings
While meal planning does require an upfront time investment, it ultimately saves hours each week. No more daily debates about “what’s for dinner” or last-minute grocery store runs. My Sunday afternoon planning session takes about 30 minutes, but saves me at least 3-4 hours of cumulative time throughout the week.
Getting Started: Essential Tools and Resources
Starting your $5 meal plan journey doesn’t require fancy equipment or expensive resources. Here are the basics you’ll need:
Kitchen Equipment Basics
You don’t need a professional kitchen to make affordable meals. These essential tools will handle most budget recipes:
- A good chef’s knife (doesn’t have to be expensive)
- Cutting board
- Large skillet (preferably non-stick)
- Medium saucepan
- Large pot for soups/pasta
- Baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food storage containers
If you’re looking to invest in one time-saving tool, I’d recommend a slow cooker or Instant Pot. These appliances make it easy to transform inexpensive cuts of meat and dried beans into delicious meals with minimal effort.
Pantry Staples
Building a well-stocked pantry with versatile, affordable staples is the foundation of successful $5 meal planning. Here are the items I always keep on hand:
- Grains: Rice, pasta, oats, barley
- Legumes: Dried or canned beans, lentils, split peas
- Canned goods: Tomatoes, tuna, salmon, corn, broth
- Baking essentials: Flour, sugar, baking powder, cornstarch
- Oils & vinegars: Olive oil, vegetable oil, white vinegar
- Spices: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, cumin, chili powder
- Condiments: Soy sauce, mustard, mayo, ketchup
With these basics, you can create countless meals by just adding fresh ingredients. The initial investment might seem high, but these items last for multiple meal cycles, bringing down the per-meal cost significantly.
Smart Shopping Strategies for $5 Meals
The success of your $5 meal plan depends heavily on how and where you shop. I’ve learned several strategies that have dramatically reduced my grocery bills:
Seasonal Shopping Guide
Shopping seasonally is perhaps the single most effective way to save on produce. When fruits and vegetables are in season, they’re not only cheaper but also more flavorful and nutritious. For example, berries might cost $5 per pint in winter but drop to $2 in summer.
I keep a simple seasonal produce guide on my refrigerator as a reminder. Here’s a simplified version:
| Season | Best Value Produce |
|---|---|
| Spring | Asparagus, peas, strawberries, spinach, lettuce |
| Summer | Tomatoes, zucchini, berries, corn, peppers, melons |
| Fall | Apples, pears, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, broccoli |
| Winter | Citrus fruits, cabbage, potatoes, onions, carrots |
Bulk Buying Tips
Buying in bulk can save money, but only if you’ll actually use the items before they spoil. I focus my bulk buying on:
- Grains and legumes: Rice, beans, and lentils have long shelf lives and form the base of many budget meals.
- Frozen vegetables: Often cheaper than fresh and available year-round.
- Meat on sale: When chicken breasts hit $1.99/lb, I buy extra and freeze portions in marinade for quick future meals.
A word of caution: bulk buying only saves money if you actually use what you purchase. Be realistic about your storage space and consumption habits.
Store Comparison Tactics
Not all stores are created equal when it comes to certain items. I’ve mapped out which local stores have the best prices on specific categories:
- Aldi/Lidl: Best for dairy, eggs, and basic produce
- Local ethnic markets: Unbeatable prices on spices, rice, and specialty ingredients
- Warehouse clubs: Good for cheese, meat, and some pantry staples
- Conventional supermarkets: Shop sales and loss leaders
I don’t recommend driving all over town each week – the gas would negate your savings. Instead, develop a rotation or combine trips efficiently.
Using Technology to Your Advantage
Several apps have become essential tools in my $5 meal planning arsenal:
- Flipp: Aggregates all local store circulars so you can quickly spot sales
- Ibotta/Fetch: Offer cashback on specific purchases
- Store-specific apps: Many grocery chains offer digital coupons and personalized deals
These technological tools help me identify the best deals without spending hours clipping physical coupons.
Building Your $5 Meal Plan Framework
Now that you understand the principles and have your shopping strategies, let’s build a framework for your actual meal plan.
Weekly vs. Monthly Planning
I’ve tried both approaches and found that weekly planning works best for most people. It’s easier to manage, allows for adjusting based on what’s on sale, and prevents food waste. However, some people prefer monthly planning for the time efficiency.
If you’re just starting out, I recommend weekly planning until you develop a rhythm. Here’s my simple process:
- Check your calendar for the week ahead (late nights, special events, etc.)
- Review store circulars for sales
- Take inventory of what you already have
- Plan meals that use sale items and existing inventory
- Create your shopping list
The entire process takes me about 30 minutes each Sunday afternoon.
Balancing Nutrition on a Budget
One common concern with budget meal planning is nutritional quality. It’s absolutely possible to create balanced, nutritious meals on a $5 budget. The key is understanding food groups and cost-effective sources of each:
- Protein: Eggs, beans, lentils, canned tuna, chicken thighs, ground turkey
- Complex carbohydrates: Brown rice, oats, potatoes, whole wheat pasta
- Vegetables: Seasonal fresh options, frozen vegetables, canned tomatoes
- Fruits: Seasonal choices, bananas, apples, frozen berries
- Healthy fats: Eggs, canned fish, peanut butter, cooking oils
I aim to include at least three food groups in each meal. This ensures nutritional balance while keeping costs down.
Template for Creating Your First Meal Plan
Here’s a simple template to get you started:
- Choose 2-3 breakfast options to rotate throughout the week
- Plan 5-6 dinners (accounting for a leftover night or simple meal)
- Lunch is often dinner leftovers or simple options like sandwiches
- Include 2-3 snack options that can be prepared in advance
This approach provides structure while allowing flexibility. You’re not locked into eating the same thing every Monday, for example, but you have a clear plan for the week.
Breakfast Options Under $5
Breakfast is often cited as the most important meal of the day, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some of my family’s favorite budget-friendly breakfast options:
Quick Weekday Breakfast Ideas
- Overnight oats: Combine 1/2 cup oats with milk, a spoonful of yogurt, and your choice of flavorings (cinnamon, vanilla, fruit). Let sit overnight. Cost: approximately $0.60 per serving.
- Egg toast: Whole grain toast topped with a fried egg and whatever vegetables need using up. Cost: approximately $0.75 per serving.
- Breakfast burritos: Scrambled eggs with beans, cheese, and salsa in a tortilla. Can be made ahead and frozen. Cost: approximately $1.00 per serving.
Batch-Prepared Breakfast Solutions
Spending an hour on the weekend can set you up for easy breakfasts all week:
- Baked oatmeal: Mix oats, milk, eggs, and fruit, then bake in a casserole dish. Cut into portions for the week. Cost: approximately $0.50 per serving.
- Breakfast sandwiches: English muffins with egg, cheese, and optional meat. Wrap individually and freeze. Cost: approximately $0.90 per serving.
- Homemade granola: Much cheaper than store-bought and can be customized to your taste preferences. Cost: approximately $0.40 per serving with milk.
Lunch Ideas for $5 or Less
Lunch is where many budgets get derailed due to convenience purchases and workplace takeout. These affordable options keep you on track:
Work and School Lunch Solutions
- Mason jar salads: Layer dressing on the bottom, hearty vegetables in the middle, and greens on top. Add protein like chickpeas, tuna, or leftover chicken. Cost: approximately $2.00 per serving.
- Homemade “Lunchables”: Crackers, cheese cubes, deli meat, and fruit make a fun, portable lunch for kids and adults alike. Cost: approximately $1.75 per serving.
- Soup and homemade bread: A thermos of homemade soup paired with a slice of bread is comforting and affordable. Cost: approximately $1.50 per serving.
Repurposing Leftovers Creatively
Leftovers don’t have to be boring repetitions of last night’s dinner:
- Grain bowls: Leftover rice or quinoa topped with vegetables, protein, and a simple dressing.
- Wraps and quesadillas: Almost any leftover protein and vegetables can be wrapped in a tortilla with some cheese.
- Frittatas: Combine leftover vegetables and meat with eggs for a quick, protein-rich lunch.
Dinner Solutions on a $5 Budget
Dinner is typically the most substantial meal of the day, but it can still fit within your $5 budget with these strategies:
Family-Friendly Budget Dinner Recipes
- Bean and vegetable chili: Hearty, nutritious, and costs about $0.75 per serving. Serve with cornbread for a complete meal.
- Sheet pan chicken and vegetables: Chicken thighs (often on sale for $1.29/lb) roasted with seasonal vegetables. Cost: approximately $2.00 per serving.
- Pasta with homemade sauce: Basic tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, and whatever vegetables need using up. Cost: approximately $1.25 per serving.
One-Pot Meal Solutions
One-pot meals save time, energy, and usually money:
- Chicken and rice: Brown chicken pieces, add rice, vegetables, and broth, then simmer until done. Cost: approximately $1.75 per serving.
- Lentil soup: Lentils, carrots, celery, onions, and broth make a nutritious meal for pennies per serving. Cost: approximately $0.80 per serving.
- Beans and rice: A complete protein combination that’s endlessly customizable with different seasonings and toppings. Cost: approximately $0.60 per serving.
Stretching Protein Across Multiple Meals
Protein is often the most expensive component of meals. Here’s how I make it stretch:
- A 3-pound whole chicken ($9) becomes:
- Roast chicken dinner (night 1)
- Chicken tacos (night 2)
- Chicken soup with homemade stock from the carcass (night 3)
This approach brings the protein cost per meal well under the $5 threshold.
Meal Prep Strategies for Success
Consistent meal prepping is the secret weapon of successful $5 meal planners. Here’s how to make it work for you:
Weekend Prep Routines
I dedicate 2-3 hours every Sunday to meal preparation. This time investment pays dividends throughout the week. My typical routine includes:
- Chopping vegetables for the week
- Cooking a batch of grains (rice, quinoa, etc.)
- Preparing one big-batch protein (like a whole chicken or pot of beans)
- Making one soup or stew
- Assembling any grab-and-go items (like overnight oats or lunch containers)
This preparation means weeknight meals can often be assembled in 15-20 minutes rather than cooked from scratch.
Batch Cooking Fundamentals
Batch cooking is different from meal prepping in that you’re fully preparing multiple portions of the same meal. Some dishes that work particularly well for batch cooking:
- Soups and stews: Often taste better after a day or two and freeze beautifully
- Casseroles: Can be assembled and refrigerated or frozen before baking
- Meatballs or burger patties: Prepare a large batch and freeze uncooked
- Marinaded proteins: Prepare several bags of marinaded meat for freezing
The key to successful batch cooking is proper storage and labeling. I always note the contents and date on everything that goes into the freezer.
Troubleshooting Your $5 Meal Plan
Even the best-laid meal plans can encounter challenges. Here are solutions to common problems:
Dealing with Unexpected Guests
Keep a few “expandable” meals in your rotation that can easily accommodate extra people:
- Pasta dishes can be stretched with extra pasta and sauce
- Soups can be bulked up with additional broth and beans
- Tacos can feed more people by adding extra beans or rice
I also keep a few emergency meal components in my pantry and freezer – pasta, sauce, frozen vegetables – that can be quickly assembled if needed.
Managing Food Boredom
Eating on a budget doesn’t mean eating the same things repeatedly. Combat food boredom by:
- Rotating through different ethnic cuisines (Mexican, Italian, Asian, etc.)
- Changing up spice profiles even when using similar base ingredients
- Setting aside a small portion of your budget for trying one new recipe each week
- Participating in meal swaps with friends who also budget cook
Adapting When Life Gets Busy
There will inevitably be weeks when your careful planning gets derailed by life events. Build flexibility into your system:
- Keep a few “emergency meals” in the freezer
- Have a list of quick, no-prep meals using pantry staples
- Identify the 2-3 most affordable takeout options in your area for true emergencies
100 Food Items Under $5
| Category | Food Item | Approximate Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snacks | Soft Pretzels | $2-4 | Often from street vendors |
| Snacks | Popcorn | $1-3 | Both microwave and kernel varieties |
| Snacks | Boiled Peanuts | $2-4 | Southern delicacy |
| Soups | Canned Soup | $1-3 | Comfort food option |
| Desserts | Frozen Yogurt | $3-5 | Small cup with toppings |
| Beverages | Smoothies | $3-5 | Fruit-filled refreshment |
| Breakfast | Cereal | $2-5 | Numerous varieties available |
| Snacks | Candy Bars | $1-2 | Sweet indulgence |
| Snacks | Trail Mix | $2-4 | Great for hiking or road trips |
| Fruits | Apples | $0.50-1 each | Healthy snack option |
| Vegetables | Celery | $1-2 per bunch | Pairs well with dips |
| Vegetables | Carrots | $1-2 per bag | Rich in vitamin A |
| Desserts | Ice Cream Scoop | $2-4 | Sweet treat |
| Snacks | Graham Crackers | $2-4 per box | Versatile snack |
| Desserts | Cookies | $2-4 | Store-bought or restaurant |
| Pasta | Spaghetti Meal | $3-5 | Noodles and sauce |
| Sides | Sweet Potato Fries | $3-5 | Healthier than regular fries |
| International | Gyro | $4-5 | Mediterranean option |
| International | Baba Ganoush | $3-5 | Eggplant-based dip |
| Breakfast | Muffins | $1-3 each | Versatile flavors |
| Appetizers | Chips and Salsa | $3-5 | Mexican favorite |
| Main Dishes | Hot Dogs | $1-3 each | American classic |
| Dairy | Cheese Varieties | $3-5 per block | Multiple options |
| Proteins | Eggs | $2-4 per dozen | Versatile protein source |
| Proteins | Canned Tuna | $1-3 per can | Budget-friendly protein |
| Proteins | Beans (canned) | $0.80-1.50 | Protein and fiber |
| Proteins | Lentils (dry) | $1-2 per bag | Protein-rich legume |
| Grains | Rice | $1-3 per bag | Versatile base |
| Grains | Oatmeal | $2-4 per container | Healthy breakfast |
| Grains | Pasta | $1-3 per box | Various shapes |
| Breakfast | Pancake Mix | $2-4 | Weekend breakfast option |
| Breakfast | Bagels | $2-4 per pack | Versatile breakfast item |
| Breakfast | English Muffins | $2-4 per pack | Great with eggs |
| Bread | Loaf of Bread | $2-4 | Sandwich essential |
| Bread | Tortillas | $2-3 per pack | Versatile wrap |
| Dairy | Milk | $2-4 per gallon | Breakfast staple |
| Dairy | Yogurt | $0.50-1 per cup | Healthy snack |
| Dairy | Cottage Cheese | $2-4 | Protein-rich option |
| Produce | Bananas | $0.50-0.70 per lb | Affordable fruit |
| Produce | Potatoes | $2-4 per bag | Versatile vegetable |
| Produce | Onions | $1-3 per bag | Cooking essential |
| Produce | Tomatoes | $1-3 per lb | Versatile produce |
| Produce | Lettuce | $1-3 per head | Salad base |
| Produce | Cucumbers | $0.50-1 each | Refreshing vegetable |
| Produce | Bell Peppers | $0.75-1.50 each | Colorful addition |
| Produce | Zucchini | $1-2 per lb | Summer squash |
| Produce | Cabbage | $1-2 per head | Long-lasting vegetable |
| Produce | Broccoli | $1-3 per head | Nutritious vegetable |
| Produce | Oranges | $0.50-1 each | Vitamin C source |
| Canned Goods | Canned Corn | $0.75-1.50 | Convenient vegetable |
| Canned Goods | Canned Tomatoes | $1-2 | Cooking staple |
| Canned Goods | Canned Vegetables | $0.75-1.50 | Various options |
| Canned Goods | Canned Fruit | $1-2 | Shelf-stable fruit |
| Canned Goods | Broth | $1-3 | Soup and cooking base |
| Baking | Flour | $2-4 per bag | Baking essential |
| Baking | Sugar | $2-4 per bag | Baking staple |
| Baking | Baking Powder | $1-3 | Leavening agent |
| Baking | Baking Soda | $1-2 | Multiple uses |
| Condiments | Ketchup | $2-4 | Popular condiment |
| Condiments | Mustard | $1-3 | Versatile condiment |
| Condiments | Mayonnaise | $2-4 | Sandwich spread |
| Condiments | Salad Dressing | $2-4 | Various flavors |
| Condiments | Soy Sauce | $2-4 | Asian cooking staple |
| Condiments | Hot Sauce | $2-4 | Adds heat to dishes |
| Oils & Vinegars | Cooking Oil | $2-5 | Cooking essential |
| Oils & Vinegars | Vinegar | $1-3 | Multiple uses |
| Spices | Salt | $1-2 | Basic seasoning |
| Spices | Pepper | $2-4 | Basic seasoning |
| Spices | Garlic Powder | $2-4 | Flavor enhancer |
| Spices | Cinnamon | $2-4 | Versatile spice |
| Spices | Italian Seasoning | $2-4 | Herb blend |
| Beverages | Coffee (ground) | $3-5 | Morning essential |
| Beverages | Tea Bags | $2-4 | Various flavors |
| Beverages | Juice | $2-4 | Fruit beverage |
| Frozen Foods | Frozen Vegetables | $1-3 | Long-lasting produce |
| Frozen Foods | Frozen Fruit | $2-4 | Smoothie ingredient |
| Frozen Foods | Frozen Pizza | $3-5 | Quick meal option |
| Frozen Foods | Ice Cream | $2-5 | Frozen dessert |
| Frozen Foods | Frozen Burritos | $1-3 each | Quick meal |
| Frozen Foods | Frozen Breakfast Items | $2-5 | Morning convenience |
| Desserts | Pudding Cups | $1-3 | Sweet treat |
| Desserts | Jell-O | $1-2 | Simple dessert |
| Desserts | Popsicles | $2-4 | Frozen treat |
| Snacks | Granola Bars | $2-4 per box | On-the-go snack |
| Snacks | Pretzels | $2-3 per bag | Crunchy snack |
| Snacks | Crackers | $2-4 per box | Versatile snack |
| Snacks | Rice Cakes | $2-3 per pack | Light snack |
| Snacks | Nuts | $3-5 per bag | Protein-rich snack |
| Snacks | Dried Fruit | $2-4 per pack | Sweet snack |
| Proteins | Peanut Butter | $2-4 per jar | Protein source |
| Proteins | Chicken Thighs | $3-5 per pack | Budget-friendly meat |
| Proteins | Ground Turkey | $3-5 per lb | Leaner option |
| Proteins | Tofu | $2-3 per block | Vegetarian protein |
| Fast Food | Value Menu Items | $1-5 | Various options |
| Bread | Pita Bread | $2-3 per pack | Mediterranean option |
| Bread | Dinner Rolls | $2-4 per pack | Meal accompaniment |
| Breakfast | Instant Breakfast Drinks | $1-3 each | Quick option |
| Lunch | Canned Soup | $1-3 | Quick lunch |
| Lunch | Ramen Noodles | $0.25-1 | Budget option |
Conclusion: Your $5 Meal Plan Journey
Implementing a $5 meal plan isn’t just about saving money – it’s about taking control of your food budget, reducing waste, and often eating healthier in the process. The system I’ve outlined has transformed my relationship with food shopping, preparation, and consumption.
Start small – perhaps with just planning 3-4 dinners per week – and build from there as you develop confidence and routines. Remember that perfection isn’t the goal; progress is. Even reducing your food budget by 20% is a significant achievement.
The most successful budget meal planners view the process as a creative challenge rather than a restriction. With practice, you’ll find yourself automatically spotting deals, creatively using leftovers, and enjoying the satisfaction of nourishing yourself and your family well for less.
I’d love to hear about your experiences with $5 meal planning. What strategies have worked for you? What challenges have you encountered? Share your journey in the comments below!
Bonus Tip: For additional support, consider joining online communities dedicated to budget meal planning. These groups often share deals, recipes, and encouragement that can help you stay motivated on your $5 meal plan journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About $5 Meal Plans
1. What is the $5 Meal Plan service?
The $5 Meal Plan is a subscription service that sends you a weekly meal plan with recipes and shopping lists directly to your email inbox. For $5 per month, you receive a comprehensive plan that includes 6 dinner recipes, a breakfast recipe, lunch recipe, dessert recipe, and usually a snack, beverage, or side dish idea. The name comes from the subscription cost, not the meal cost.
2. How much do the meals in the plan actually cost?
According to the service, the meals typically cost less than $2-3 per person, and often much less depending on where you live and local food prices. The creator of the plan states that she has been able to make these meals for under or very close to $5 for her entire family.
3. Is there a free trial available?
Yes, the $5 Meal Plan offers a 14-day free trial with no commitment upfront. This allows you to test the service before deciding if it’s worth the $5 monthly investment. They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
4. When are the meal plans sent out?
The meal plans are emailed to subscribers every Friday at 11 AM Eastern Standard Time, allowing you to prepare for the upcoming week’s meals.
5. What types of meal plans are available?
The service offers two weekly subscription plans: the Classic Weekly Meal Plan and the Gluten-Free Weekly Meal Plan. They also offer specialty meal plans as one-time purchases, including 6-Week Slow Cooker, Paleo/Whole 30, Vegetarian, 30-Minute Meals, and Summer Slow Cooker plans.
6. Do I need to use coupons to achieve the advertised meal prices?
No, coupons are not necessary to reach the advertised price point of about $2-3 per person per meal, though many users are able to lower their meal costs even further by using coupons.
7. Can I customize the meal plans for picky eaters?
The service provides a shopping list with special notations for each recipe, making it simple to customize if you want to skip a meal or already have ingredients on hand. There’s also a Meal Plan Builder feature that allows for customization and a private Facebook group where members can discuss adaptations for picky eaters.