by Grace Brentley

Created on: July 31, 2008

The cost of food has skyrocketed in recent months, but it is a necessity. It is possible to save money on your grocery bill, but it requires thinking a little outside the box. One easy way to save money on produce is to visit your local farmers' market. Many of the vendors are happy to negotiate on price, and you get the added bonus of locally grown, organic fruits and vegetables. If you have children, joining a local wholesale club can save you money on bulk packs of everyday essentials, such as juice boxes and snack packs.

Another important step to saving money is to make sure you are taking advantage of everything your supermarket has to offer. Most larger chains have some sort of customer loyalty program, with rewards ranging from automatic savings to coupons for future use. An added bonus is that some supermarkets also have gas stations and they will often offer customers up to ten cents a gallon off if they spend a certain amount on groceries.

Another way to save money is to become a coupon clipper. Scour the Sunday paper and clip out any offers for products you regularly use. Saving a quarter on a box of crackers may not seem like much, but using multiple coupons can add up to big savings, especially if any local supermarkets double the coupon's value.

Making (and sticking to) a grocery list can also pay dividends. I try to plan a loose menu for the week and buy those ingredients, plus lunch foods for me and my son, and allow myself three reasonable impulse buys. This keeps me from feeling guilty about picking up those new chocolate chip cookies that look so yummy and keeps my impulsive side satisfied as well.

One of the most expensive food items is proteins. Ground beef, chicken, pork, and the like comprise a good chunk of most grocery bills. I did the math and figured that I am better buying a bulk package of lean ground beef at my local wholesale club, dividing it and freezing the unused portions. Chicken and pork prices, however, are better at the supermarket and save me freezer space. Another way to save money on protein is not to be afraid of manager's specials. My supermarket has a section in the meat department of deeply discounted products that need to be consumed or frozen immediately. I have been buying discounted meat for years, and the taste and quality are the same as the freshest cuts.

The last way to save is to look for specials at restaurants. Many eateries are offering new promotions and deals to help stimulate slow business. Some fast food and pizza places offer family nights, where adults can dine cheaply and kids eat free. Other restaurants may run buy-one-get-one-free coupons in the paper. If your schedule allows, trying making a late lunch your big meal for the day. The prices are always cheaper during the day and many restaurants have lunch specials.

As the cost of living continues to rise, it may seem impossible to stretch a dollar any further. With patience, creativity, and a plan, it is possible to save money on food whether eating in or dining out.

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