by Gayle Geisenheimer

Created on: April 24, 2009   Last Updated: April 28, 2009

Saving money at the supermarket isn't just about coupons. Here are some tips to keep the grocery budget under control.

* Of course use a manufacturer's or store cents off coupon when possible. Save when not using a coupon too. Check out the no frills brand. The no name or store brand mushroom soup will work just as well in your recipe. Many no name products are almost exactly the same as the higher priced name brands.

* Shop at stores offering to double or triple the value of your manufactures coupons. You may not buy everything on your list at the store, but pick up the savings you'll receive with doubling. Search websites for the brand name products on your shopping list. Click and print money saving coupons abound on the internet. If you are planning to make a cake, visit Pillsbury or Betty Crocker for available cents off coupons to print. If you aren't sure exactly what meals to plan for the week, google Tyson, Hormel, Delmonte or other favorite brands. You'll most likely find a few recipes for chicken or other main dishes. Again, most sites also offer a coupon or other money saving promotion to help save money.

* I am not one for stockpiling 50 bottles of shampoo .BUT there are sometimes when using a coupon with a sale will allow you to get a product for pennies or FREE! That's the time to stock up. Share the freebie with friends, family &,the local food pantry or women's shelter. CVS, Walgreen and Rite Aid offer extra savings to frequent buyers. Be sure to sign up for these special savings and rewards for buying personal care items and more.

* Check that Day old Bakery rack. If the kids are going to make toast, or you are going to prepare a stack of grilled cheese or BLTS ....the slightly stale bread won't be noticed.

* Stop at the Blemished Produce Section. I have lots of little ones under foot...so I usually cut up the fruit anyway....it's easy enough to cut out a bruise from a pear....and you can save quite a bit looking for the marked down fruit. Bargain fruits and veggies are also great for grilling.

* Find out when your meat department has specials. I find some great buys on Sunday or Monday Mornings. The special items such as marinated meats or coated chickens not sold over the weekend, are often marked $2.00 off each package or even half price. Now these foods are usually not on my budget, but when I can purchase the lemon peppered chicken breast at a big discount, it becomes a great buy !

* Try planning meals around "on Sale " Products . Often you can really save " BIG " if an item is on sale...and you have a coupon and a refund on your dinner ingredients. Check out those sale flyers. It's very easy to plan a meal and save money. Watch for unadvertised, in store sales on products you use often and buy some extras if the price is good. . * Know a good sale when you see it ! Keep track of prices.....then you'll know when the tuna goes on sale three for a buck ...that it's a good buy on your favorite brand.

Saving money at the supermarket in this current economy is more important than ever.

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