by Tena Kight

Created on: April 30, 2010   Last Updated: May 02, 2010

Latest research from the Bureau of Labor Statistic's online report at www.bls.gov/  found the average American family spent $6,443 on food. The average income for a family of 2.5 members ended at $63,563 (before taxes).  This concludes that about 10% of the American family income went to groceries.

With the rise in unemployment and the tough economy more families are looking for ways to save money. Here are a few tips that can help save on the food bill.

1. Get a plan and stick to it.

Set a maximum amount that can be spent and challenge yourself to stay under that amount, but never go over it. Plan the meals in advance and make a list of necessary items. Writing them down will keep the focus on the needed items and cut down on spontaneous spending. You can utilize your store's weekly sales ad or flier by planning the menu around the sale items for added savings. Check the cupboards before you make the shopping list to eliminate doubling up on products you already have on hand.

2. Prepare your food yourself.

Cooking your meals from scratch is a great way to save on the grocery bill. Pre-cooked meals are more costly to produce and package so the cost is passed on to the consumer. Prepping your own food can save as well. If you purchase shredded cheese or chopped salad for example, you are paying someone else to prep your food. Fruit prepping can save you a great deal of cash also. For example, apple slices are usually more expensive than an intact apple. Even the canned beans cost more than a bag of beans you cook yourself.

3. Don't waste.

Get creative with the leftovers from your meal. You can freeze meats and use them in soup or on a pizza later. Several vegetables can be frozen also. Keep cookies and crackers in glass containers to keep them fresh longer. You can alter your recipes to accommodate some left over ingredients to use up leftovers, as well as stretch a meal to feed unexpected guests without hurting your food budget. Another idea is to take the leftovers for lunch the next day and cut out the expense of eating out.

4. Grab the bargains.

Try the generic brands. You might not like some of the products as well as your favorite brand, but try them before you knock them. With some basics like salt, sugar, and flour the only discernible difference is the packaging and the price. Look for sales and grab the great bargains when you find them. Use coupons, they're easy to find in store circulars or online and can save you a bundle, especially on

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