How to be Feed a Family on a Budget

In this day and age even two income households struggle to make ends meet. With alittle effort, your family can enjoy better meals and you can save hundreds of dollars a year on food expenses.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• calendar
• meal plan

1. Making and adhering to a pre-planned menu will be the basis for your savings plan. It will also ensure good quality meals that your family enjoys.
   
   Start by recording a list of meals that your family enjoys and the cost and time involved in preparation and the approximate number of servings.
   
   Select from this list according to the family budget and plan each week's menu two weeks in advance.
2. Pot type meals such as stew, spaghetti, jambalaya, soups, goulash, etc. will likely offer the most cost effective options and may even provide for two meals. You can add salads, breads, or other side dishes to add variety and nutrition.
3. Purchasing foods in bulk from stores such as Costco can offer savings in the long run. Divide and freeze or store foods in usable portions.
4. Discount grocery stores offer many of the same or equal quality brands as main stream grocery store chains at a reduced price. Be sure to shop around and purchase items according to your upcoming menu needs. Purchasing foods on short notice will definitely cause food prices and the gas used in travel to increase.
5. Have dedicated days for eating out pre-planned with a budget of spending allowed. Restaurant costs add up quickly.
6. Eat at restaurants for lunches rather than dinners if possible as costs may be more affordable. Also be sure to keep a stock of local restaurant coupons ready and available when preparing your menu plan.
   
   Often restaurants have allocated days that children eat at a reduced price or free. They also may offer specials such as all you can eat etc. on certain days.
7. Packing lunches will also help to save on unnecessary expenses.
8. Make food preparation and dining a fun family event. This will help to build good family relations and make eating at home more enjoyable.