BUDGETING Get the Most for Your Money
Convenience costs . . . go back to the basics Convenience foods like frozen dinners, precut fruits and vegetables, and take-out meals often cost more than if you were to make them at home. Take the time to prepare your own—and save!
There are many ways to save money on the foods you eat. The three main steps are: planning before you shop, purchas- ing items at the best price, and prepar- ing meals that stretch your food dollars.
Planning
Easy on your wallet
Before heading to the grocery store, plan your meals for the week. Include meals like stews, casseroles, or soups, which “stretch” expensive items into more portions. Check to see what foods you already have and make a list of what you need to buy.
Certain foods are typically low-cost options all year round. Try beans for a less expensive protein food. For vegetables, buy cabbage, sweet potatoes, or low-sodium canned tomatoes. As for fruits, apples and bananas are good choices.
Get the best price
Cook once . . . eat all week!
Check the local newspaper, online, and at the store for sales and coupons. Ask about a loyalty card for extra savings at stores where you shop regularly. Look for specials or sales on meat and seafood—often the most expensive items on your list.
Prepare a large batch of favorite recipes on your day off, and double or triple the recipe. Freeze in individual containers. Eat them throughout the week, and you won’t have to spend money on take-out meals.
Compare and contrast
Get creative with leftovers
Locate the unit price on the shelf directly below the product. The unit price is the price per unit of weight or measurement—often per ounce. Use it to compare different brands, as well as different sizes of the same brand, to determine which is the best buy.
Spice up your leftovers—use them in new ways. For example, try leftover chicken in a stir-fry, over a garden salad, or in chili. Remember, throwing away food is throwing away your money!
Buy in bulk
Eating out
It is almost always cheaper to buy foods in bulk. Smart choices are large containers of low-fat yogurt and large bags of frozen vegetables. Before shopping, remember to check if you have enough freezer space.
Restaurants can be expensive. Save money by getting the early bird special, going out for lunch instead of dinner, or looking for “2 for 1” deals. Ask for water instead of ordering other beverages, which add to the bill.
Buy in season
Portion power!
Buying fruits and vegetables in season can lower the cost and add to the freshness. If you are not going to use them all right away, buy some that still need time to ripen.
Start downsizing to healthy portions and your body will too. Learn to “eyeball” your food to gauge what’s too much—and what’s just right. Use smaller plates at home to serve your meals: Your plate will look full, but you’ll be eating less.
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