I fall for it every time. Titles, images, call-outs that promise to save money at the grocery store lure me in. Call it an obsession, a trait, or simply being frugally conscientious, I’m clicking through to read the article. But the information tends to be the same, just recycled with new images and phrases.

Yet, I read on.

…because, when coaching an individual or teaching a class, fresh information is always welcome. The budget item that can be flexible and seems to get the most attention is food.  Most people tend to get their budget in balance by decreasing the dollar amount designated to food.

Here are five different and additional things to consider when decreasing the amount of money spent on food:

1. Consider serving sizes. There is an abundance of food in most homes and consideration given to how much every member of the family should consume will benefit more than just the budget. Having raised three boys, sometimes more than one serving is needed to meet growth and activity needs! What would happen if we ate till satisfied, not stuffed?!
2. Forgo expensive spices and ingredients. When reining in your food budget, temporarily skip the expensive meals and dishes that require rarely used spices and/or exotic, out-of-season ingredients. These items add up quickly; eliminating one $5 ingredient can provide margin for other needed items in your pantry.
3. Know your prices. With the help of grocers and the use of a calculator, shoppers can quickly discern which item is a best buy. Larger doesn’t always mean cheaper. Always compare ounces to ounces, pints to pints. etc. If larger is better priced, consider storage space and time frame for using before the expiration date.
4. Stock up during specialty months. Food companies follow regular promotion routines for offering specials on their product. For example, many frozen foods are discounted during the month of March during Frozen Food Month, or dairy products may be discounted during June Dairy Month. Holidays provide another opportunity for bargain items. Purchase grilling condiments during July 4th holidays, and baking ingredients Thanksgiving till Christmas.
5. Have a quarterly clean out. Every three months, inventory the freezer and pantry. Plan meals using using these foods plus whatever is left in the refrigerator. Not only will this extend the food budget, but also helps keep storage in order and prevents food waste.

There are many factors that influence how and what is budgeted for food. What are unusual ways you adjust your food budget? Share below.

For the love of family,

Kristin