by Leigh Goessl

Created on: August 14, 2008   Last Updated: September 13, 2009

Inflation is on the rise and many food items have risen in price as a result. Unfortunately raise percentages in salaries don't always commensurate with the rise in the cost of living and people have to search out ways to save and make their money stretch further.

Food is typically one of the first costs people look to scale back on because it is one where you can exercise a bit of flexibility and control unlike electric, gas or housing payments which are set expenses.

Since the price of food has really jumped up over the last several months, your weekly grocery bill is probably a good reflection of these increases. In response are you seeking ways to cut back on food expenses?

You probably are, but the fact is everyone needs to eat. Food isn't one of those luxury items you can simply do without and eliminate from the household budget, because you need to eat in order to sustain.

While the price of food is rising, even though you're likely feeling a pinch in your budget, there are still a few tricks and tips you can use in order to reduce the costs of food.

Reducing this expenditure does take a bit of experimenting, and in many instances some extra time is involved, but the savings you'll receive in return are well worth the effort invested.

By establishing new ways to approach grocery shopping, hare a few tricks you can try:

Careful Shopping Habits

The best way to save (and to eat healthier too!) is to focus on the perimeters of the store and avoid the middle aisles where possible. The end aisles usually contain dairy, fruits, vegetables, grains and meats, all the basic food groups; the middle aisles are usually canned, processed, boxed and frozen foods which are more expensive. If you stick to the basics you can save a lot of money on your weekly grocery trip.

Avoiding impulse buys is also important when grocery shopping. Stores love to set up attractive displays at the ends of each aisle and at the checkout stand in order to sway customers to purchase these items. If you resist this temptation, you'll easily keep your grocery bill lower. It's also a good idea to go food shopping after you've eaten; if you are hungry the probability is higher you may give into temptation for those expensive impulse buys.

Another good tip is to get to know your local stores well. It is a known fact some grocers charge more than others and if you get to know the normal prices at your local shops you can better spot when an item is a good deal or not.

It's pretty common for

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