10 Best Ways to Enjoy a Bento Box in the UK - A Complete Guide for Food Lovers

The bento box has become a popular lunch option across the UK. Once rooted in Japanese tradition, it's now embraced by office workers, students, and health-conscious eaters. With its mix of portion control, variety, and visual appeal, the bento box is both practical and satisfying.

Whether you're prepping meals at home or buying from a local shop, the bento box offers a smart way to enjoy diverse foods in one serving. Let's dive into everything you need to know about choosing, using, and loving the bento box.

What Is a Bento Box?

A bento box is a compartmentalised lunchbox filled with a balanced meal. Traditionally from Japan, it usually contains rice, meat or fish, and vegetables. Today, it also features Western twists with wraps, pasta, and even desserts.

Common Components of a Bento Box:

• Cooked rice or noodles

• Protein like chicken, tofu, or salmon

• Fresh or steamed vegetables

• Pickles or salad

• A sweet treat (fruit or mini dessert)

The balance makes it ideal for a quick, healthy meal.

Why the Bento Box Is Taking Over Lunch in the UK

Over 42% of working professionals in the UK now bring lunch from home. The bento box fits perfectly into this trend. Its reusable design reduces waste. Its portion control helps manage calories. And its visual appeal encourages healthier eating.

As Jamie Oliver says,

“Good food is all about balance, and the bento box gets it just right.”

Top 7 Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box

1. Portion Control – Each compartment limits overeating

2. Balanced Nutrition – Encourages a mix of proteins, carbs, and fibre

3. Reduces Food Waste – You pack only what you need

4. Saves Money – Cheaper than daily takeout

5. Supports Meal Planning – Easy to prepare meals for the week

6. Encourages Variety – Mix up meals daily

7. Boosts Mindful Eating – Slows down how you eat and what you eat

Studies show that people using lunch boxes eat 35% fewer calories compared to those eating out.

Popular Bento Box Types in the UK

1. Traditional Japanese Bento Box
Features rice, fish, pickled veg, and egg rolls. Popular in Japanese restaurants.

2. Modern Bento Lunch Box
Often includes pasta salads, wraps, fruits, and dips. Ideal for Western preferences.

3. Kids' Bento Box
Colourful, fun compartments with easy-to-eat items like cheese cubes, mini sandwiches, and fruit slices.

4. Vegan Bento Box
Plant-based options like tofu, lentils, quinoa, roasted veg, and fresh greens.

5. Office Bento Box
Quick-to-pack meals with high protein and low carbs. Popular among gym-goers and busy workers.

How to Pack a Perfect Bento Box

Packing a good bento box isn’t hard. You just need a plan.

Step-by-Step Packing Tips:

• Start with a base: rice, quinoa, noodles, or salad

• Add protein: chicken, eggs, beans, tofu

• Include colour: add 2–3 types of veggies

• Finish with a snack: fruit or a small sweet

• Use dividers or silicone cups to keep things neat

Pack your meal the night before to save time in the morning.

Best Ingredients for a UK Bento Box

Here are some local and accessible ingredients perfect for your bento box:

• Cooked couscous or basmati rice

• Grilled chicken or smoked mackerel

• Hummus, falafel, or cheddar cheese cubes

• Sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli

• Apple slices, grapes, or a flapjack bite

Keep it simple, fresh, and colourful.

Where to Buy a Bento Box in the UK

You can find bento boxes in many shops across the UK. They range from basic plastic models to stainless steel designs.

Top Retailers:

• Amazon UK

• John Lewis

• Lakeland

• MUJI

• Marks & Spencer

• IKEA

Prices start from £7 to £30, depending on material and size.

Top 5 Bento Box Meal Ideas

1. Grilled Chicken + Brown Rice + Broccoli + Apple Slices

2. Tuna Salad + Couscous + Mixed Peppers + Orange Wedges

3. Falafel + Hummus + Pita Bread + Carrot Sticks + Grapes

4. Soba Noodles + Tofu + Edamame + Mango Cubes

5. Pasta Salad + Mozzarella + Cucumber + Biscuit

These meals are quick, easy, and ideal for both adults and kids.

Bento Box vs Traditional Lunch Boxes

The bento box clearly offers more value for daily use.

Bento Box for Kids: Fun and Healthy

Kids love variety and colour. A bento box helps parents provide both.

Kid-Friendly Additions:

• Mini sandwiches

• Hard-boiled eggs

• Sliced fruits

• Cheese sticks

• Cherry tomatoes

Parents find it easier to get kids to eat healthy with bento boxes.

Are Bento Boxes Eco-Friendly?

Yes, many are made from BPA-free plastic, bamboo, or stainless steel. This reduces single-use packaging. You save money and help the planet.

A UK survey showed 61% of people are reducing single-use plastics. The bento box helps meet this goal.

How to Clean and Maintain a Bento Box

• Rinse right after use

• Use warm soapy water or dishwasher

• Dry fully before storage

• Avoid harsh scrubbers

Look for dishwasher-safe labels when buying.

Top Bento Box Brands Available in the UK

• Yumbox – Great for kids

• Monbento – Stylish and durable

• Sistema – Affordable and reliable

• Black+Blum – Sleek and eco-friendly

• Bentgo – Popular for office meals

Prices range between £10 to £35 depending on size and design.

Conclusion

The bento box is more than a lunch trend—it’s a practical, healthy choice for everyday life in the UK. With endless meal options, eco-friendly materials, and health benefits, the bento box has become a staple for smart eating.

Whether you're prepping lunch for work, packing your child’s school meal, or just aiming to eat better, the bento box delivers on all fronts.

Final Tip:
Try meal prepping your bento boxes on Sundays. It saves time, money, and makes healthy eating effortless through the week.