by Barbara Nuzum

Created on: March 02, 2009

Saving Money on Groceries

We all have one thing in common-we get hungry and we need to eat. So, groceries are not a discretionary expenditure. We cannot avoid buying groceries, but we can change the way we do our grocery shopping and control the cost of our food. It will take a little bit of effort, but you will end up with money in your pocket and delicious meals on the table. Here are a few suggestions that I think you will find helpful in getting started.

1. Set a reasonable budget

To help you plan a budget that you can live with, go over your grocery expenses for the past 6 months. Then decide how much less you want to spend. Be reasonable and set goals that can be achieved. Nothing would be more disheartening than to fail on your first attempt. You can always set a lower budget at a later time. If you need help setting a budget, take a look at http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/USDAFoodCost-Home.htm.

2. Clean out your pantry

Do you even know what is lurking in it? Organize your pantry and know what you have and where to find it. This will help you avoid buying duplicate items, control waste and facilitate meal planning.

3. Check weekly sales flyers or check store ads online

Do you have more than one major grocery chain in your area? Then read the sales flyers and compare prices before you even get into the car. Once you have checked the weekly ads, you can go on to the next step, which is

4. Plan your meals for the week

Sit down with a cup of coffee and make a list of meals to be served to your family that week. While you do this, have the sales flyers handy and make your list according to what is offered as a weekly special. If it's chicken, then try to incorporate that in your meal planning as much as possible. You can do the same with fruits and vegetables. Usually, whatever is in season will be a good choice.

5. Make a grocery list and stick to it

Step 4 will definitely help with accomplishing step 5 successfully. Now you know what you need to buy and you truly can make a list that will be easier to follow. Temptation to stray from the list will be much less. You have a plan now and you are steering on the right course.

6. Use Coupons

Coupons can save you money if you use them wisely. Remember that you want to use the coupon because you want to buy that particular item. Go through your coupons after you have made your lists to avoid buying something simply because you have a coupon. Collect coupons in the newspaper, the stores that you frequent, online or direct mail. Check

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