The way the gift is packaged can be almost as important as the food itself. Consider using a container that can be used after the food has disappeared. Flea markets and yard sales are great places to shop for these kinds of giveaway containers. Here are a few suggestions:
• Loaf of bread tied to a cutting board accompanied by a bread knife
• Tea or coffee blend in a bright canister or in a tea or coffee cup
• Jams, jellies, and other spreads in a reusable container with a spoon or spreader attached
• Anything wrapped in a tea towel
• Cookies in a flowerpot lined with plastic wrap instead of a cookie jar
• Unusually shaped cookies packed with their cutters.