During my ‘real job’ days before becoming an entrepreneur, I worked with several nutritionists.  These collegues provided much insight as well as opportunities to learn about the science of nutrition. Every year, these professionals observed National Nutrition Month, which is celebrated in March. This year, the theme is Fuel for the Future, focusing on eating for every phase of  life while protecting the environment. A beautifully and idealistic theme, yet when facing an ‘inflation crisis’ with rising food prices, how do we meet this mission?

Embracing the need to feed my family well AND keep within a set food budget feels counter-intuitive. Does it need to be? Maybe. Maybe not. I lean towards not, simply because I love a challenge. Following the theme Fuel for the Future and its intended mission, here are a few ways to feed your family well while also staying on budget:

Tips:

1. Always plan. Considering the ages and stages of family members, plan your menu for the week (or two weeks). When planning remember the basics of good nutrition – protein, vegetables, whole grains, fruit and dairy should be included every day for every person.  Using your calendar for upcoming commitments, plan your meals accordingly. To avoid frustration, make sure you plan for breakfasts, snacks, and lunches as well as dinner.
2. Buy what you need. Do an inventory of your pantry, freezer and fridge before making your list.
3. Know your food costs. When commonly used foods are on discount, stock up. Canned foods can last 6 mos to one year. Some fresh foods can be frozen, either raw or cooked.  HINT: Many foods go on sale every 10-12 weeks. Stock up UNTIL they go on sale again.
4. Use a shopping service. This not only saves money (because you don’t buy extras!), but also saves time.
5. Reframe food costs. If milk is $5.00/gallon, that is $.31/1-cup serving. If eggs are $5.00/dozen, that is $.84/2-egg serving. Not bad for good protein sources.
6. Know yourself (and your family). What time is available? What is your skill set? Do you want/desire to cook? Adapt to make it work for you and your family.
7. Use digital coupons. Many chain grocers offer in-store specials using their digital coupons. Download and use them.
8. Include family members:

• • Let family members help plan meals
  • Cook together
  • Watch cooking/learning videos and practice together
  • Create happy memories. Doing tasks together can be great conversation opportunities.

Tips 1-6 not only help with planning nourishing meals on a budget but also support sustainability and protecting the enviroment. Focus on whole foods, locally grown when possible and less packaging.  Purchasing only what is needed, supports sustainability efforts as well as your food budgeting efforts. A double-win!

My collegues and friends are celebrating this month. Will you join them? For more ideas, visit www.eatright.org. Other favorites include Ellen Krieger’s podcast One Real Good Thing and Judy Barbe’s courses, videos, recipes found at LiveBest.

For the love of your family, nourish them well.