The Tesco Meal Deal. It is a British institution.

Whether you are a student, a builder, or an office worker, the "Main + Snack + Drink" combo is the backbone of the UK lunch break. But if you are tracking your nutrition, the Meal Deal section can be a trap.

Grab a "Triple Cheese" sandwich, a bag of crisps, and a sugary energy drink, and you’ve just consumed 1,000 calories and barely any protein. You’ll be hungry again by 3pm.

The Strategy: Play the Game You don't need to avoid the meal deal; you just need to play the game better. Here is the MyMacroGo formula for a high-protein, budget-friendly lunch:

1. The Main Event Ignore the pasta pots (they are usually 80% mayonnaise). Look for:

• The Roast Chicken & Bacon Sandwich: A classic for a reason. Solid protein.

• The Hoisin Duck Wrap: Surprisingly lean compared to the mayo-heavy options.

• The Salad Bowl: Only if it has a substantial protein source (egg, chicken, or tuna).

2. The Snack (The Secret Weapon) This is where most people fail. Swapping crisps for a protein source changes the game.

• Boiled Eggs (Spinach & Egg pot): It sounds boring, but it’s pure nutrition.

• Chicken Satay Skewers: Often included in the snack tier. Massive protein win.

• Fridge Raiders/Peperami: Processed? Yes. High protein? Also yes.

3. The Drink Don’t drink your calories.

• Go for: Water, Zero Sugar drinks, or the protein shakes/smoothies that are sometimes included (check the label—some are just fruit sugar).

The Result? You can easily hit 30-40g of protein for under a fiver. Use the app to scan the barcode before you buy to make sure you aren't grabbing a calorie bomb by mistake.