Tip #3 Approach rising food costs differently. Paying more for quality food may help prevent paying money to the doctor. Consider this – Americans spend the least amount of their income on food yet spend the highest amount of their income on medicine compared to other countries. Is there a relationship? Instead of trying to spend less money on lower quality food, save money elsewhere and in ways that may create healthier habits as an added bonus. Save gas money or transportation costs by walking or biking for short errands. Look for free entertainment outdoors and spend less time in front of the TV or computer, thereby decreasing electricity bills.

Tip #4 Bulk doesn’t necessarily mean better. You may get a great price on that crate of avocados at Costco but it will still be a waste of money if you have to throw away half a crate of rotten avocados that weren’t eaten. Avoid buying more than you need to prevent wasting money and food. Buying in quantity may be a better option if the food can be frozen (meats, butter, bread) or stored in the evident that it isn’t used (canned goods).

  The term “sticker shock” was originally coined to describe shock felt about the price of a car.  These days, sticker shock is being felt more at the grocery store than at the car dealership.  A common excuse for not eating healthier is that it costs more money to eat healthy.  So, each week for the next few weeks, I’ll offer a few suggestions that may help bring down that grocery bill.   

 Tip #1 Eat when you are actually hungry. This may sound like a “duh” to you but a lot of eating occurs when people are not actually in need of food.  For example, chucking down two dollars for a cup of coffee – is that a habit or physical hunger?  If you must have a cup of coffee, making it at home saves cash.  Eating the bag of chips while watching a show at night – physical hungry or mindless eating?  Food lasts longer in the household if eaten only when someone is physically hungry.  Same goes for meal times.  Slow down at meals and you don’t actually need that second helping of food. Use the apple test (see Quick Bite from November 2010) as one way to help differentiate physical hunger from other types of hunger. If you would like more information, email me at amy@aquickbite.net

Tip #2 Take stock before you shop.  After creating your menu for the week, peek through the pantry and fridge before heading to the grocery store to prevent duplication and waste.