How to Cut Back on Grocery Bills

Cart full of groceries

Groceries are necessary for everyone. Even people that eat out a lot have at least some snacks or some drinks in their fridge. Saving money on the grocery bill, whether we are going through tough financial times or just want to spend it on other things, can be easy if you follow these tips when you are grocery shopping. Whether you want to get more groceries for your buck, spend that money somewhere else or save it for a rainy day, you will definitely notice a difference in your pocketbook.

Things You'll Need

• Coupons Membership in wholesale club Re-usable grocery bag

Instructions

1. 

   Coupons are probably the easiest way to save money on groceries. The problem is, many people can't be bothered to look for them or clip them so they miss out on large savings. Scan through your local Sunday paper for coupon inserts and clip the items that you use. Look through the fliers of you local supermarkets, and see if you can match the coupons up with in-store specials for additional savings.

2. 

   While at the supermarket, look for the discounted produce or bread rack. These items are not too far gone to eat, you just need to be selective. You may find a pack of green peppers that are starting to fade and have some rough spots. If you plan to cook with them, you can get the discounted pack, take them home and chop them up and immediately freeze them. This can be done with any extra produce. Bananas can be frozen for future use in baking, as well as apples and other fruits and vegetables.
   The same can be said for the discounted bread rack. Many breads, rolls and baked goods were just baked 24 hours earlier but now have to be discounted. These items can also be frozen and used at a later time.

3. Buy only the produce that you need to avoid it spoiling in your fridge. Also, consider buying frozen fruits and vegetables, which are just as healthy and easier to preserve. Much money is wasted on spoiled food. Take these steps to ensure that food you buy does not go to waste.

4. Buying in bulk can also save a great deal of money, especially for large families. Many areas have large wholesale clubs that offer discounts on quantity buying, while charging a small fee for a yearly membership.

5. 

   Some grocers now charge a small fee for your bags, especially discount grocers. This is a way for them to keep costs down for you. Instead of paying 10 cents per bag, take your own reusable grocery bag each time you go. This can really make a difference in the long run. Most grocery stores now offer reusable bags for sale at checkout.

6. Many local churches or charity groups have local food co-ops. For a small price you can get double your dollar's worth of groceries. For example, for a $30 fee you can pick up $60 worth of groceries once a month. Contact your local churches or Department of Social Services for details.

Tips & Warnings

• Get in the habit of leaving your reusable grocery bags in the car, so you don't forget them when you go to the supermarket.

• Be careful when buying discounted meat. It is only recommended if you are going to take it home and cook it up as soon as you purchase it.