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Dining on a dime: Tips to saving at the storeBy Cindy Williams Meadowlark District Extension Agent The unsettled financial market is causing many to tighten their spending. Americans spend over half their food dollars on meals eaten away from home. This may be a good time to dust off the pots and pans and reintroduce yourself to the kitchen. Here are some hints to cut costs in the kitchen: 1. Plan meals, then shop with a list. The average shopper spends 40 percent more on impulse purchases when shopping without a list. You're also likely to spend 50 cents more for every minute you are in the grocery store beyond 30 minutes. Weekdays and early mornings tend to be less crowded, which lets you get in and out of the store quickly. Shopping with a list can save gas money as well by avoiding repeat trips to the store. 2. Think before you drink. Buy a reusable water bottle and fill it with water. Limit consumption of soft drinks and fancy coffee. These "extravagances" might be things to put on your gift "wish list" as the holidays approach. 3. Try store and generic brands which usually cost less than name brands. 4. Look for specials, sales and coupons in newspaper ads. Use coupons only for foods you would normally eat, rather than for "extras." 5. Check your grocery receipt-sometimes there are valuable coupons on the back that help save money. Also, if you have access to a computer, check online for coupons. 6. Shop on double or triple coupon days when a store increases the value of coupons, or use grocery store loyalty cards as another source of savings. 7. Prevent food waste. Buy the types of food you know your family will eat and only the amount that can be consumed before it spoils. 8. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables in season when they are cheaper. 9. Use canned or dry beans to occasionally replace more costly sources of protein like meat, poultry and fish 10. Build main dishes around pasta or grains, such as noodles or rice. Combine the dish with smaller amounts of meat, poultry or fish. 11/24/08 Date: 11/18/08
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