We always want to put fresh and healthy food on the table for our families, but with rising food prices, this may become more challenging. The cost of groceries increased last year and the USDA expects this trend to continue. By using proven strategies, you can see your grocery bill decline, and your cupboards fill up.
Meal Plan: One of the top ways to spend less at the store is to make a weekly meal plan. A meal plan should include all meals and snacks for the family for an entire week. Set aside time to pick out uncomplicated dinner recipes and compile your grocery list. To maximize savings, use seasonal fruits and vegetables. To quicken this step keep all your tested and family favorite recipes in one binder.
Stick To Your List: Studies show that the longer you are in a grocery store, the more money you will spend. Bring a grocery list with you to the store and don’t get sidetracked. Group like items together on the list to prevent backtracking through the store. Keep a running grocery list on your refrigerator. When a family member uses the last of something, or you run low on an item, write that item on the list. This will prevent you from making a second trip to the store.
Strategize: Grocery stores use years of market research and customer buying patterns to lure you into spending more money. Items at eye level are usually the most expensive, and just because something is on sale does not mean it is the cheapest. Beware of sale items at the end of an isle, manufactures often pay more for this space, and a less expensive brand may be available down the isle. Try to purchase generic brands, and don’t be afraid to use coupons. A coupon combined with a sale can yield big results! Also, if an item is truly on sale, consider stocking up.
Track Prices: Serious savers keep a price book. This means taking a notepad with you to the store and writing down your most frequently purchased items. Write down the item, the brand, date, size, unit price, and store. This may seem tedious at first, but soon you will find that you no longer have to write things down. You will know where to go for the least expensive items, and you will be able to spot a good deal quickly.
Tips for Saving At Check Out:
- Compare price per ounce/unit. This is the quickest way to tell what item costs less. Often price per ounce is listed on the price tag.
- Only shop once per week
- Always make a meal plan, and stick to your grocery list.
- Use coupons combined with a sale
- Eat seasonal fruits and veggies
