Are you looking to cut your spending? Many of our daily costs are impossible to actually cut, but food is one area where nearly everyone spends too much. This article will take you through some quick methods to chop your grocery bill down to size.
Brands
The first thing you need to do is look at the brand names that you are choosing to buy. Do you buy the top brands because that's what you're used to? Often store or no-name brands can be up to half the price of a big popular name. Try buying the cheaper version of what you like and see if it really makes a difference.
In some cases, you will never notice...margarine, sugar, and cornflakes, for example, are all pretty much the same, no matter what the box looks like.
Price Compare
If you always shop at the same store because it's convenient, you may need to think about checking out other grocery stores in the area. Sometimes the same product will be drastically cheaper at another store. Find out if you could be saving money by driving a few blocks over. It probably won't be worth it for just one item, but you might be surprised and discover that everything in the store is a dollar or so less, in which case, it's well worth the extra trip.
Make a List
Having a plan for your meals will help you create a shopping list that only includes things you actually need. If you plan to have chicken this week, for example, you don't need to pick up roast beef.
Once you make your shopping list, stick to it. Even if something is on sale or catches your eye, don't stray from the list.
Shop the Sales
There's a good reason to look at the sales flyers for the local supermarkets. You never know when they might have a really great sale that will help you save money and stock up on food that you want. While I did just say that you shouldn't buy stuff not on your list even if it's on sale, this would be considered planning ahead and you would base your list and possibly your meal plan around these sales.
Groceries are the ideal place to start saving money. If you are looking for a way to cut costs, but don't know how . . . look at your grocery habits first.
Looking for ways to save money? The Gourmet Mama can help with economical meals, shopping tips and ideas for keeping food costs down.
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