There are 1001 different ways to reduce your food bill. However, in this article the focus is on the 5 most practical ways to save on food expenses. Of course, food prices have really shot up in the recent past. The economy is contacting and households around the country have to come to terms with such words as budgets, cut back, necessities among others.
Anyhow, food is one of the necessities one cannot do without. As a result it takes up the larger part of most expenses. The great thing, however, is that it is possible to use the following 5 ways to reduce your food bill.
1. Stick to a Food List
As you are shopping for groceries, you will come across lots of food that are on offer. Additionally, you will be tempted to buy some foods simply because they look tasty. This is especially the case when you go shopping on an empty stomach.
Therefore, the best thing you can do to cut back on these unnecessary expenses is to create a workable food list. This list should be adhered to irrespective of the temptations that come your way.
Also, you should never do your shopping if you are feeling hungry. In fact, research shows that this is one of the leading causes of impulsive shopping. Once you manage to stick to a list and shop on a full stomach, it will be easier for you to make cut backs on your food expenses.
2. Walk Away from Popular Food Brands
As you select food items, you will be tempted to pick those ones that have popular brand names. This is due to the unfounded belief that these products taste better or are more attractive due to their glossy adverts.
However, it is more prudent to stick to regular food and product names. This could help you save anything between 10 and 15 percent every time you go shopping. After all, it is common knowledge that in- house items cost considerably less than other popular brands. In a couple of cases, also, most of these products are manufactured within the same factories so you will still get high quality irrespective of the brand you choose.
3. Accumulate Loyalty Points
Most food stores will award loyalty points/ cards. Therefore, you can make great savings by building up on these points over a couple of months and weeks after which you will get good cash back or amazing discounts in return for the points.
4. Stock up on Lentils and Pulses
Lentils and dried pulses can be used to bulk out on meals. They cost considerably less than other foods within the same groups. Therefore, they will increase your protein intake without the added cost.
5. Use Discounts
Always double check any bill you get after buying food to see if you got a discount. Supermarkets will often advertise deals and discounts at the point of sale. Unfortunately, most shoppers do not enquire after these discounts meaning that they miss out.
All in all, the above 5 ways to reduce your food bill should work well for you irrespective of your physical location. Use them and you will end up making greater savings while sill eating right and living healthy.
Roger is a contributor for ppi claims where you can get some tips to help you manage your finance better.