In its original form and in the versions you see all over the web, the recipe calls for packaged coleslaw from the produce aisle, but it is very easy – and much, much cheaper - to make your own. A pound of cabbage typically costs around 49-69¢ per pound and can cost as little as 29¢ a pound, whereas pre-chopped coleslaw is typically $2 per pound and up.
As you might expect, I see no point in paying triple the price – or more - for someone else’s labor.
After all, chopping cabbage and whatever other vegetables you want to include, such as celery, carrots, broccoli, etc. is a simple task that takes only minutes.