Explore More
Nick Quintero: How Meal Prep Became a Power Move Against Rising Food Prices
Nick Quintero tells us how meal prep became a power move against rising food prices as new tariffs on imported goods take effect and food prices are expected to continue to rise.
Let’s face it: food prices are going up and fast. Thanks to new tariffs and global supply chain shifts, the cost of everyday groceries, from coffee and rice to fresh fruits is climbing. And if you have noticed your weekly shop suddenly costing more, you’re not imagining it.
But there’s a simple, effective way to stay ahead of the spike: meal prep.
Economists predict that proposed import tariffs could increase the average American household’s expenses by thousands of dollars annually, with food costs among the hardest hit. Staples like rice, coffee, spices, and produce—often imported—may see sharp price jumps, leaving consumers searching for ways to stretch their grocery budgets.
“By planning meals in advance, buying only what’s needed, using leftovers wisely, and stocking your freezer, households can dramatically reduce both food waste and unnecessary spending.” says Nick Quintero, owner of Workweek Lunch.
Meal prepping is a smart, practical way for you and your family to save cash, eat better and stay one step ahead of inflation.
Workweek Lunch with Nick Quintero
Since 2016, Workweek Lunch has been helping busy people take the guesswork out of eating well. Whether you’re juggling work, workouts, or just trying to avoid another sad desk lunch they make your meal prep simple, satisfying, and seriously crave-worthy.
Economic forecasts are prepping us for truth behind war tariffs: the average household could be hit with thousands of dollars in extra expenses this year. And the biggest bite? It’s coming straight out of your fridge.
With imported foods getting more expensive, smart shoppers are switching up their game. Meal prepping isn’t about rigid rules or boring containers but not wasting your money on food you forget you bought or end up throwing away.
"Meal prep helps households regain control of their grocery budgets by providing structure, reducing impulsive purchases, and minimizing food waste. Planning ahead allows for cost-effective bulk purchases on core ingredients. By checking what’s already in the pantry and fridge before shopping, families can avoid buying duplicates and ensure food doesn’t go to waste. Choosing recipes that share ingredients across multiple meals further cuts down on spending, and having meals prepped and ready to go significantly reduces reliance on takeout or fast food."- Workweek Lunch Team
Nick Quintero, the guy behind Workweek Lunch, puts it straight:
“Meal prepping is a simple but powerful way to fight back against rising costs.”
How Meal Prep Gives You an Unfair Advantage Against Rising Food Prices
Let’s say you hit the store with a plan:
- You buy only what you’ll actually use
- You prep meals for the week using repeat ingredients
- You cook once and eat for days
- You avoid that 9pm takeout spiral
No one is saying you have to become a Tupperware wizard overnight. Start small: maybe a couple of lunches or dinners a week. Leftovers become next-day fuel. One rotisserie chicken becomes tacos, sandwiches and salad protein.
Here’s another smart shift: go local. Imported goods are getting pricier, but seasonal, local produce is still relatively stable in cost. Hitting up a local market or grabbing a lunch box gives you fresh ingredients and supports nearby farmers. Meal prepping helps you work with whatever’s in season, which is great when you’re trying to flex with grocery prices and stay out of the frozen-food aisle.
You’re saving time. You’re cutting down on food waste. You’re keeping more cash in your wallet. And as a bonus? You’re eating better food, more consistently.
The truth is, meal prepping is more than a cooking strategy, it is a mindset shift. It’s about owning your schedule, eating well without effort and not letting the economy dictate how you fuel your day.
Kitchens like Workweek Lunch are helping more people get into the habit of mindful eating with ready-made weekly plans, grocery lists and flexible recipes. And if you’re still not sure where to start, they’re offering a free trial—so no excuses.
You can try Nick Quintero’s Orange Chicken, Ground Beef Pasta, Breakfast Burritos or really anything from the easy meal prep lunches- they will change your mindset.
Inflation is hitting hard. But you don’t have to sit back and take it. A little planning goes a long way for your wallet, your time and your health. Meal prep isn’t about perfection. It’s about regaining control in a chaotic economy—one meal at a time.
Do you want to share your professional opinion and inspire our readers ? YOUR EXPERTISE could be paving the way for a fairer society and progress.
