wellness
Eating Well on a Shoestring: How to Eat Healthy in Tung Chung Without Breaking the Bank
Discover local tips and tricks for affordable nutrition in Tung Chung, from affordable markets to community programs.
How we reported this
One in five households in Tung Chung struggle to afford healthy food, according to a recent survey by the Tung Chung Community Centre.
This issue matters now more than ever, as the cost of living in Tung Chung continues to rise, putting a strain on families and individuals who want to prioritize their health and wellbeing. With the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tung Chung's city centre exceeding $18,000 per month, it's no wonder that many residents are looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing their nutrition. Fortunately, there are many local resources and tips that can help.
In Tung Chung, residents can find affordable and healthy food options at the Tung Chung Market, located on Yi Tung Road, or at the Citygate outlet mall's weekly farmer's market. The Tung Chung Community Centre also offers a range of programs and services, including cooking classes and nutrition workshops, to help residents make healthy choices on a budget. Additionally, organisations like the Tung Chung Food Bank and the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups' Tung Chung branch provide food assistance and support to those in need.
Making Healthy Choices Affordable
According to data from the Hong Kong Department of Health, the average cost of a healthy meal in Tung Chung is around $50 per person, per meal. However, with some planning and creativity, it's possible to eat healthy for much less. For example, a bag of fresh vegetables from the Tung Chung Market can cost as little as $20, while a whole chicken from the Citygate outlet mall's butcher shop can cost around $40. By buying in bulk and planning meals around seasonal ingredients, residents can save money and still eat well.
As of January 2026, the Tung Chung Community Centre has also launched a new initiative to provide affordable and healthy meal options to residents, with prices starting from just $15 per meal. This program, which is supported by the Hong Kong Government's Community Investment and Inclusion Fund, aims to provide healthy and nutritious food to those in need, while also promoting community engagement and social inclusion.
So what can residents do to start eating well on a tight budget? First, start by planning your meals and making a grocery list to avoid food waste and impulse purchases. Consider shopping at local markets or joining a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to get fresh, seasonal ingredients at a lower cost. Finally, get creative in the kitchen and experiment with new recipes and ingredients to keep mealtime interesting and engaging. With a little bit of planning and resourcefulness, it's possible to eat healthy and well in Tung Chung, even on a tight budget.