As most parents know, groceries can take a big bite out of the family budget.
In fact, it costs between $568 and a whopping $1,293 to feed a typical family of four each month!
“But you can easily and painlessly save at least 20 percent on your grocery bill,” said Gary Foreman, founder of Stretcher.com, a website that promotes “living better for less.”
Here, The National ENQUIRER has compiled a dozen cost-slashing strategies guaranteed to save you $100 or more every week!
Know What’s In Your Pantry!
About 25 percent of the groceries bought on each shopping trip get tossed in the trash. That’s wasteful, and costly.
With a family of four spending about $142 weekly on groceries, keeping tabs on your pantry can help you cut a quarter of your costs. SAVINGS: $35.50
Track Your Supermarket’s Sales Cycle!
Check out the two-for-one deals, and base your weekly meal plan on that. You’ll cut your $142 grocery tab in half each week! SAVINGS: $71
Leave The Kids At Home
“Studies show the bill is higher when children go along,” according to Gary. Kids want everything they see, not things you actually need.
Know The Price Range!
The best way to save, advised Gary, is by using a “price book.” In it, dedicate a single section to “essential” items that you purchase regularly. The first time you buy each item, jot down the date, the brand and size, the price and the quantity. Do the same every time you buy the item.
“This will allow you to recognize a good price for an item, and stock up when you do!” he explained.
Choose Store Brands
Non-perishable items are often priced at up to two-thirds less than the same items with a big brand name.
Stoop To Conquer
Stores know that people look for purchases at eye level – so that’s where they stock the highest-priced products. The stuff at ankle level invariably costs less!
Shop When You’re Full!
Studies show that people grab expensive comfort foods when they’re tired and hungry. That’s why stores put yummy-smelling prepared foods near the entrance. If you haven’t eaten before shopping, pop a mint. It satiates hunger and overwhelms the aroma.
Weigh Your Options
Compare items not just by a sale price, but by the price per pound. For meats, check the cost per serving – so the weight of fat and bones doesn’t confuse you!
Have Good Timing!
Ask your grocer what time meat and fish – typically the most expensive items in your grocery basket – go on sale. Stores slash prices before expiration dates, saving you tasty bucks!
Schedule Your Shopping
The less often you shop, the more you’ll save. Aim to shop once a week. You’ll also save money on gas by reducing your trips to the store!
Use Coupons
Now you don’t even have to clip paper coupons anymore! Simply download them onto your phone from Coupons.com or SmartSource.com. And don’t feel like you must use your coupons right away. Wait for the best sale price, and then flash them for DOUBLE the savings!
Get Cash Back!
Phone apps like SavingStar.com and Checkout51.com offer weekly cash-back deals for groceries. Simply text them your receipt, and put your phone and money in your pocket!
