I am always looking for ways to save money; are you looking for ways to save money? There are a number of areas in day-to-day living where you can save money. Your grocery bill is just one of those areas.

• Do not buy pre-processed food, whenever possible use whole ingredients, there is less processing and therefore the food tends to be less expensive, however You should always compare the price per ounce listed on the price tags. 
• Keep a price book with a list of the cost of the most commonly purchased groceries, check these to ensure that the “sale” prices are really good deals. 
• Build a shopping list on your computer, use it to help develop your shopping list Stick to your shopping lists, do not be tempted by items you do not need. 
• When on “sale”, stock up on staples, buy them in bulk quantities if the price is compelling enough and you are able to use them before the freshness date. 
• Plan your meals and shopping based on what is on sale (check your price book to ensure that those prices really are good). 
• Shop at more than one store – they all tend to have deals on different items – do your price comparisons and split your purchases, if it makes sense to do so. 
• Buy your fresh foods in season and local for the best prices and tastiest foods. 
• Only buy what you can use, or if you enjoy canning buy enough for a full canner load. 
• Learn to make your own bread, pasta, spice mixes, cakes, etc.. the food will be healthier, tastier, and less expensive. Plus there is a great feeling of accomplishment. If you do not currently do this, try just one and perfect it then try another. 
• Begin cutting and using coupons on things you already use, do not buy something you do not already use even if it seems like a great deal. 
• Cut down on the meat portions. Use less meat in your cooking because meat is an expensive form of protein (beans, eggs, and nuts are also protein sources). Instead of using meat as a main dish you can use it as an accompaniment (in stir fries, and pastas).    
• If you do not already have a freezer, a minimal purchase can allow you to stock up on great purchases (turkeys at thanksgiving, ham during the holidays are usually on sale). You can eat well and spend less money doing so. 

These are some simple tips to saving money on groceries. A little planning can make a large difference in the pocket book.



Photo By Svilen.milev - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link