31 Jan
2010

Your grocery bill is likely a major expense on your budget, but there are plenty of ways to slash what you pay for your food. Here are the best tricks:

1) Don’t pay for convenience. Many of the things that increase your grocery bill are more expensive because they are more convenient. For example, if you are buying shredded cheese, you are paying several times more than you would to buy a block of cheese. Buy the block and grate it yourself. Baking potatoes already wrapped in foil are another major culprit. Buy simpler cuts of meat and cut them yourself and stay way from pre-packaged convenience foods and frozen dinners – it’s always cheaper to make your own.

2) Don’t pay for nice packaging. In any grocery aisle, look up and down. This is where the bulk-packaged items are. These are often priced even lower than brand-name “sale” items.

3) Buy in season or frozen. Seasonal produce is fresher, more nutritious, and cheaper. Anything that’s not out of season, look for it frozen or canned. You’ll save money and get the same nutritional kick. If you like meats, look for frozen meats, which are often cheaper than fresh.

4) Find alternatives to the grocery store. You can often save money by shopping at farmer’s markets, pick your own farms, and through farmer co-ops. You may enjoy better quality food, too. Plus, you’ll be supporting local farmers.

5) Don’t forget to check out our guide to slashing all your bills. Now that you’re saving a bundle on food, you’ll be eager to save even more on all your expenses.