Consumer food spending is down…3.7% in the last quarter of 2008 alone. This is the biggest recorded drop in over 60 years according to a recent Wall Street Journal article.
While trying to stretch food dollars, consumers are forgoing $4 specialty coffees and expensive restaurants. Many are cooking at home and turning to less expensive grocers to save money. Citi Investment Research was quoted in the article warning of a “modern-day price war” that will occur as discount retailers drop prices, forcing other retailers to follow suit.
In these tough economic times, the smart shopper can save big and still eat well. Following these suggestions requires a little time and planning, but the savings can be well worth it!- Make a plan! Start by reviewing local grocer circulars and create your menu for the week based on the best sales. If there’s a really fabulous deal on something you use often, buy extra and store or freeze. Don’t be afraid to shop somewhere new. Places like Super Target and Walmart are often less expensive than grocery chains. I recently discovered a small Italian grocer near my house that has amazing prices on high quality meats.
- Use coupons and generic brands for extra savings. Clipping coupons doesn’t have to take a lot of time if you stick to items that you use most often. Most Sunday papers contain coupon booklets or you can go to manufacturer websites for printable coupons. Get adventurous by trying a few house brands and save even more. Don’t let the brand names fool you into thinking they’re always better. I’ve tried many store brand foods that were actually much tastier than the name brand one I’d used before.
- Make dishes that do double duty. A roast or chicken made on the weekend can give you leftovers for sandwiches or a casserole later in the week. You may want to invest in a time saving appliance like a crock pot. Get things ready the night before, add to the crock pot in the morning and when you get home, dinner is served!
- Since meat is generally the most expensive part of the meal, go vegetarian one night a week. An all bean chili, grilled vegetable and cheese quesadillas or pasta primavera are all quick, easy and delicious. Need some help in the recipe department? Again, you can find lots of great ideas online or click on the Healthy recipes label to the left to see all of our tasty recipes.
Check out these other Sensei blogs for even more ways you can eat well and save:
Sensei Talks: Brown Bags Are Cool Again
Sensei Talks: Eating on a Budget
Sensei Talks: Avoid Food Waste
Sensei Talks: Save More Money…Coupon Web Sites
- Renee
Labels: healthy budget, healthy living, Renee
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