Everyone’s budget looks different, but the one thing we all have in common is that we all have to eat. Unfortunately, food prices often keep people from eating well. Fruits, vegetables, and other healthy choices are often expensive, while cheaper foods tend to be processed, high in fat, and packed with sugar. If you’re concerned about the grocery bill but still want to eat well, we have a few tips to help.
Grow Produce
The family garden is making a comeback, as is canning and preserving foods like pickles, jams and jellies, and certain fruits. On average, a packet of seeds for mixed salad greens costs $3. These packets contain about 500 seeds each, which can be used for several salads. As an added bonus, growing your own fruits and vegetables will help your family want to eat them because they chose and nurtured the plants in the garden.
Look for Sales
Many staples like breads, pastas, and beans go on sale often, so check your supermarket and bring coupons. Some supermarkets offer “meal deals” in which families can get an entrée, sides, and a dessert for one low price; the dishes vary weekly or monthly. You can also buy staples in bulk from big box stores. Calculate how much you need beforehand so you can stock up for several weeks or months in advance.
Seek Versatile Foods
Versatile foods include potatoes, chicken, shrimp, and fish. These can be baked, roasted, fried, or otherwise prepared a variety of different ways with an almost endless list of side dishes. They’re also fairly inexpensive and have a longer shelf life than other choices. If you’re counting calories, search for lighter recipes in cookbooks or online.
More ways you can save money on food:
- http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/guide/10-ways-save-money-food-shopping
- http://www.eatingwell.com/healthy_cooking/budget_cooking/15_tricks_to_save_money_on_food_but_still_eat_well
- http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20362429,00.html
- http://www.rachaelraymag.com/food-how-to/grocery-shopping-tips/9-tips-to-save-money-on-your-grocery-bill
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