5 ways to cut food costs

If you’re like me, you probably spend too much money on food. Here are a few ways to cut back on those food costs.

Stop buying junk food

We all love having chips and cookies (and ice cream) around the house, but they aren’t good for you and they cost money. It may be easier said than done, but if you avoid the Pringles and Softbatch, you’ll save a few bucks and probably lose a few inches on your waistline.

Do it yourself

Need some tomatoes? Grow them. Love granola bars? Make them. Since Al Gore invented the internet and Pinterest, there are plenty of ways for you to find out how to do things you don’t know how to do. Think certain foods are too difficult to make? YouTube it and prove yourself wrong.

Be a smart shopper

Okay so you can’t grow everything. There are some things you need to buy in order to make the things you want to make. If you’re going to shop, be smart about it. Head to the grocery story, farmer’s market, or co-op with a plan in place. For the lowest prices, shop in season when possible or use coupons. I know clipping coupons is a hassle, but saving money is awesome. Also, be mindful of when certain items are on sale. If you can figure out a sales pattern, buy enough each time to last until the next time they’re marked down.

Use that slow cooker

One of my best friends is named Crockpot. A slow cooker can be an easy way to cook in bulk and it can also be a good way to cook those cheap cuts of meat. Cheaper meat can be tough, but your slow cooker can easily solve that problem. I’ve found that anything that cooks the entire time you’re at work usually turns out pretty tender and delicious.

Bulk is key

Buy in bulk. Cook in bulk. We all know the benefits of shopping at wholesale retailers. When you can buy non-perishable items at a cheaper price, jump on the opportunity. If the recipe you’re making is too much food, go ahead and cook it and freeze the leftovers. It’s easier to cook when you don’t have to alter a recipe, plus you’re saving yourself time later when you can just reheat something rather than have to start from scratch.