How to save money on groceries - Top 6 Tips

Dec 2008
14
Posted In:  restaurants and grocery

How to save money on groceries. A little tired of your grocery bills this year? No surprise, as according to the FDA, the jump in prices from 2007 to 2008 was the biggest in some time, at over 10%. In fact, the average cost of food, using a moderate plan, has risen from $163/week for a family of four in 2000, to $225/week in 2008! Don't despair though, as we have some great tips to help get those costs under control:

  1. Eat Healthier! Aside from being good for you, fruits and vegetables are cheaper than processed foods. Canned is the cheapest, but be sure to mix in some fresh produce as well.
  2. Understand grocery marketing. The most expensive items tend to be in the easiest spots. Before you grab that item on the endcap or the shelf at eye level, look in the lower shelves first. You might find a cheaper brand there that makes them less money.
  3. Use a list to shop, but know when to stray from the list. Using a list will help reduce those impulse buys of items you don't really need. But, don't overlook items that are exceptional bargains. Consider swapping items on your list. For example, if fresh corn is on sale, and at a great price, consider substituting it for one of the veggies on your list.
  4. Know what items you are short of. You can avoid "associated purchases" if you know what you have on hand. For example, many people buy ketchup when they pick up frozen french fries, because they aren't sure if they have any left at home. Know ahead of time what condiments, seasonings, and sides you already have at home.
  5. Shop without your kids If you shop while the kids are at school, you'll avoid them pressuring you for treats, and make more sensible choices.
  6. Considering becoming a coupon user. It does take an investment in time, but expert coupon shoppers sometimes save 80% on their bills. Of course, they spend hours preparing. But, if you focus just your preferred store, you can save quite a bit with just 10 to 20 minutes of prep. Really lazy ? Just take your shopping cart first to the newspaper area and pick up the last Sunday paper while you are shopping. If you find you like coupon shopping, try some of the online sites:

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