Applied Economics meets Home Economics as freshers finally conquer cooking
It’s out with Pot Noodle and the bin for baked beans - this year’s freshers, are under-grad-gastronauts who are completely at home by the hob.
New research by Morrisons reveals that students are shunning going out, and instead using their new-found culinary competence to entertain at home - nearly two thirds (65%) would rather stay in and cook for entertainment than go out and party.
The third instalment of Morrisons ‘Food Skills’ report reveals today’s cash strapped students are making the most of their £212 weekly shopping allowance as more than half (56%) believe cooking ‘Come Dine With Me’ style is the best way to win friends and one in 10 (9%) regularly host dinner parties.
And it’s not beans on toast being served, 46% of canny cash strapped students create new recipes from leftovers and two thirds (62%) like to prepare adventurous meals for their friends.
Angus Maciver, Morrisons Group Marketing and Communications Director said: “Previous student stereotypes of domestically clueless youngsters clinging to beans on toast and running home to their parents for the occasional home cooked meal are being challenged by today’s students. This savvy generation is using dinner parties as the perfect cost-effective opportunity to catch up with friends.
“It seems students have taken a leaf from their parents’ books and are finding creative ways to feed and entertain themselves on a budget. Whether it’s the effect of living through today’s economic climate or the popularity of cooking shows such as Come Dine With Me, today’s students are no strangers to the kitchen.”
Instead of fast food or microwave meals, one in three (34%) daily prepare their breakfast from scratch, one in five (20%) prepare their lunch and 60% ensure they have the right cooking equipment.
To take a break from long studying stretches, three in four (78%) choose to relax by stirring up culinary creations. And showing that university education extends beyond the library, 75% have learnt more recipes since moving away from home than they ever learnt at school.
Nick Emms, National Union of Students (NUS) commented, "Previously, students have been maligned for failing to be creative in the kitchen. However, this generation of students grew up with celebrity chefs and easy access to recipes on the internet. With increasing financial pressures, they are being resourceful, trying new recipes and being canny with their food budgets. Many see cooking as a skill that enhances their social standing."