Thai food has very strong and concentrated flavors. It is complemented by ingredients rich in therapeutic or curative qualities, especially when Thai herbs are used as components in a particular dish. Such creations are regarded as an art among Thai people that have been passed on from one generation to the next. In the olden days, it was popular to use locally grown vegetables as ingredients, as they were easily obtainable and inexpensive. Most households had chilies, onions and garlic readily available in their kitchens at all times. Preparation of a meal is not necessarily a difficult task, but due to the changing lifestyles of Thai people, eating habits have also changed and cooking a family meal has become less common. Packaged curries and instant meals have emerged as another alternative for the modern-day family.