Try these easy tips to cut costs without losing the nutrition.

smallbiztechnology

smallbiztechnology

Each day we are all feeling a little tense when it comes to money especially when the need to go grocery shopping arises.  

In these economic times it is appealing to buy  high-calorie processed foods (such as cookies, chips, donuts), because they usually cost less, than lower calorie nutritious things such as vegetables, fruits, and whole-grains.  

With a little knowledge, you too can save big without losing big.  

Try these helpful tips from Linda McDonald, M.S, R.D., editor of SupermarketSavvy.com. 

1.  Balance the Bulk.  Stocking up on whole-grained rice, pasta, and other staples in bulk can save you money.  Just remember to not buy more than can be used before expiration dates.

2.  Practice Portion Control.  When it comes to meats, the biggest mistake people make is overestimating how much they actually need, McDonald says.  According to McDonald, let your palm be the judge: 3-ounces roughly the size of a woman’s palm, is an average serving per woman; or 4-ounces (the size of a man’s palm) for men.

3.  Keep Walking.  Do a little more prep work yourself and skip the pre-made pizza crusts, shredded cheese, and pre-washed salad greens.  This trick alone can trim 10 to 20 percent off your food bill, McDonald says.

4.  Sometimes Frozen Is Better Than Fresh.  Sometimes opting out of buying out-of-season produce, which sometimes tend to cost more and a tendency to lose its nutrients due to being shipped.  If this is the case choose frozen fruits and veggies, use this as a chance to be creative.
5.  Once In A While Try Organic.  Because organic fruits and veggies are free of pesticides, they can be a better choice for you and your families.
6.  Search For Store Labels.  Many grocery stores are offering stroe brand products that are just as great in quality and nutrients. So you don’t always have to but name brands which will in turn lower your bill.
7.  Not Always What It Seems.  The reason sometimes our bills are so high is due to the purchasing of calcium fortified juices, sports drinks, teas, etc.  Try buying foods that are naturally enhanced and nutritional.
8.  Check The Unit Price.  Usually listed on the shelf tag, the price per unit gives the cost per ounce, pint, or pound.  Use it to compare prices across different brands, says Laurie Herr from Myrecipes.com.
9.  Pay Attention.  Try to unload store specials and items you have coupons for at the end to make sure they are all scanned correctly and you receive all the discounts.
10.  NO, Sometimes Is The Best Answer.  Try to always plan your list ahead of time before going to to the grocery store.  This will give you a chance to resist the impulse to buy items not needed; and never go grocery shopping hungry. 😉