Replacing pocket money with packed lunch: a healthier, cost-saving solution for students

This research investigates the policy of replacing pocket money with packed lunches among 13-15-year-old junior high school students in their schools in Bekasi City. The students' perceptions, attitudes, and experiences in this regard could be mainly explained by their well-being, health, and financial management. In all, 143 respondents who were given pocket money and lunch by their parents participated in this online survey. Students' response has been sought on the issue of lunch brought along to school, the use of pocket money, and their preference for reductions in pocket money in lieu of the lunch box. The results obtained indicate that the majority agree with the proposition that carrying lunch to school can save them from spending pocket money on buying food; thus, they will be able to save more. Nevertheless, some students think that a packed lunch alone cannot be sufficient for the day's needs, implying that pocket money is required for extra expenses to buy more snacks. Furthermore, students consider homemade meals healthier and much nutritious than those bought outside. On the whole, students welcome the policy but still require pocket money for other impromptu school needs. This study finds that packed lunches are always better in improving students' health and savings culture, although pocket money is necessary for backup purposes to help address other personal needs. The analysis used was that this content analysis whereby certain themes were found cutting across like the issue of saving money, not enough provision, and pocket money being available to complement a student's daily activities.