Saving Money on Food

Beat the Credit Crunch by Changing the Way One Buys Food and Cooks

Oct 10, 2008

It is possible to economise on food by buying carefully and cooking from basic ingredients. Over a period of time this can save a significant amount of money.

Everyone has to eat, and food makes up a significant proportion of every family’s outgoings. But there are ways to spend less, yet still eat well. All it takes is a little advance planning.

Buying Food Economically

One should choose the cheapest supermarket. The quality is unlikely to vary much, as all supermarkets have high quality food these days. But the cost saving can be significant.

The shopper should make a list and stick to it. Supermarkets want her to impulse buy; that is how they make money. But that is also how it is easy to end up spending far more than one intended.

Buy fruits and vegetables which are in season. The details will depend on the time of the year and where one lives, but in the UK, the shopper can check what is ripe at Eat the Seasons Website. If buying processed goods, supermarkets’ own brands are significantly cheaper than branded goods, and very often made by the same manufacturer. When possible, shop late in the day, when supermarkets discount products which will not keep; one can make significant savings that way.

If the shopper can afford it, she should buy in bulk. Large tins and packets are cheaper, and markets and greengrocers will often give good deals for those who buy by the box.

Cooking from Basic Ingredients

Cooking from scratch rather than using tins and packets is far cheaper, and also healthier. And often it does not take as long as one thinks. If short of time, one can cook in the microwave, or cook a week’s worth of meals and freeze the extra.

It is easy to use up leftovers by turning them into pies, soups, and stews. Dry cheese can be grated and added to soups rather than thrown away, and stale bread makes excellent breadcrumbs or croutons.

Is Eating Out Really Necessary?

Everyone wants to enjoy a meal out once in a while. But many coffees and lunches in cafes are unnecessary. Taking a flask of coffee plus sandwiches to work can save several pounds or dollars per week. It is also often much healthier.

Growing One’s Own Food

It doesn’t take up a lot of space to grow one’s own vegetables. A corner of the garden can be used for salad leaves, most of which require very little care. Potatoes, carrots, and cabbages are also very easy to grow. Asparagus is a lot of work, but the rewards are worthwhile, and save a substantial amount of money.

Those who follow the above advice will find that they have far more money in their pockets at the end of the week, which can then be spent on treats and family days out

Source

The copyright of the article Saving Money on Food in Family Budgeting is owned by Helen Krasner. Permission to republish Saving Money on Food in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.