Monday, January 19, 2009

Why do groceries cost so stinking much?

In these tough economic times, we're always looking for ways to cut back and cut corners. We're especially trying to cut back on groceries, as prices continue to rise. In an effort to do that, I'm trying to only grocery shop once a month. This saves me time and only gives me one opportunity for impulse spending (instead of two or three). We use a two-week menu (for weeknights) and double it to go grocery shopping. We usually have leftovers on the weekends, but I'll get a few extra things at the store to make quick meals in case there aren't enough leftovers.

To further save money, I've just finished going through our menu and the grocery receipts from my last shopping trip to determine how much each meal will cost. Right now, they range from $1/serving (red beans and rice w/ sausage) to $3.67/serving (fajitas). I'm on a mission to find cheaper meals (that are still somewhat healthy). Please let me know if you have any ideas for cheap meals OR what your family does to cut down on grocery spending. Thanks!

3 comments:

Amy said...

Go to http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/Dinner/1Bag5Dinners/1Bag5DinnersLanding.aspx - they have a lot to offer including "healthy living bags"
Good food too. We found that one bag lasted us more one and 1/2 weeks because there are only 2.5 of us. :) Nathaniel does not eat full servings - meaning lots of left overs.

Lori said...

I know what you mean, groceries are so high these days. I'm going to start doing this, and you should check into this too. Its called Angel Food Ministries. Its a program for anyone, and you pay $35/mo and have a pick up site and they load you up with food! They give you probably $70-$90 worth of food. Just type it in in google and go to the website to find a site near you.

The Shindels said...

Amy - I priced the meals in that "healthy living bag" and even estimating fewer servings than suggested, all of them came out less than $2.00/serving (except for the pizza, of course)! We can't wait to try out some new recipes...and save some money! Thanks for the suggestion.