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Shop smartBy John Schlageck Kansas Farm Bureau
How do shoppers in your family react when they go to the supermarket? Many shoppers today report they are upset and frustrated. Most have already heard food in this country is a bargain, but when they finish paying the bill they're not so certain. These shoppers believe their food dollars are being gobbled up by a marketing system where they have no say. Shoppers can really save and many do. Alert, well-informed shoppers can save up to 15 percent. For the average family food bill this could mean a savings of nearly $1,000 a year. Almost every shopper has compiled a list of cost cutting ideas of his or her own. The following list is by no means complete, but contains effective ways to save at your local supermarket. First, shoppers should know what they are buying. With thousands of items in the modern supermarket, product information is essential in selecting the best buy. Like all education, this requires some reading, listening and studying. For example, the product label on a gallon of milk is a source of information on nutrition, menu use, quantity and quality of the food item. Secondly, cost-conscious shoppers must buy when and where the price is right. There are many times to buy on special, buy store or generic brands or to buy in quantity--if shoppers keep abreast of the price practices of our highly competitive supermarkets. Shopping regularly at two different stores is an informative practice. Doing so can lead to savings because different stores usually specialize in different food items. Accurate record keeping has become an important part of a smart shopping routine. Money saving ideas take time but result in time well spent. One-half hour of planning before each weekly shopping trip can result in savings. Cost-conscious shoppers influence the entire food industry. If shoppers do not check prices, retailers may display items that sell by saturation advertising or gimmick packaging. Both add to food costs. Retailers who respond to cost-conscious shoppers must look for the best buy from suppliers. Farmers who fill some of these orders must make the best use of their resources to match the competition. Smart shoppers can experience satisfaction instead of frustration. Initially this satisfaction results from actual savings in the family's food budget. Secondly, the wise shopper realizes intelligent buying keeps our food industry the best in the world. Securing the most for your food dollar is significant to every consumer in this country. It is also well worth the effort. John Schlageck is a leading commentator on agriculture and rural Kansas. Born and raised on a diversified farm in northwestern Kansas, his writing reflects a lifetime of experience, knowledge and passion.
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