The habit of 'eating in' has long died out when convenient foodcourts sprang up in satellite towns, giving HDB dwellers plenty of choices to eat out economically. However, eating in allows one to eat more simply and healthily. It also gives the family a feeling of togetherness when all come home from work or school to dine together.

When I last ate out in Singapore, I could not find anything decent in my satellite town foodcourt for under $4.50. If you add a drink, it will likely cost you around $6 for a simple meal.

I have also long forsaken dairy milk as I could not afford the huge price increases. I switched to juices which are at least $1 cheaper for a 1.5 litre bottle.

As the world grapples with this serious problem of food price increases, let us find practical solutions. Taking on extra evening jobs does not seem a reasonable solution.

Gilbert Goh Keow Wah
Hubei, China