While more expensive options include eating out or getting take-out, even cooking at home can be expensive, depending on the ingredients you choose to buy. It can be even more costly if you are focused on eating healthy and organic options instead of the less healthy, cheaper options at the grocery store. But just think of all the different ways you could spend the money if you successfully cut your food bill. Read on for ideas on how to cut your food bill each month. Another option is to buy items in bulk through a local food co-op, farmers’ market, or big-box store. Worth noting: some farmer’s markets have a section where they sell wholesale to restaurants, but you have to make larger minimum purchases. Additionally, co-ops often require membership. But going in as a group on either of these can save you money, as well. Try eating leftovers, packing your lunches at the beginning of the week, or doing a lunch exchange at work. All of these ideas can help reduce your food bill. Additionally, it gives you more control over the food that you eat and gives you the option of making—and eating—healthier meals. So try cooking your dinners at home each night, at least during the week. If you’re pressed for time in the evenings, try working slow cooker meals into your weekly dinner repertoire. Make-ahead freezer meals are another frugal option. As a bonus, there are many slow cookers or freezer meals that aren’t unhealthy or starchy. You can do your cooking for the week over the weekend or make double when you know the meal will freeze well. If you do not have time to plan a menu, there are several menu-planning services where you get weekly menus. Most services have several different options you can use. You can check out eMeals, The Fresh20, Saving Dinner, and The Scramble. If you have food you love to cook but need help to assemble your grocery list and menu plan, you may want to look into Plan to Eat. This app allows you to plan your menu with your recipes, then puts together the grocery list for you. You can also use coupons to save money on your groceries. It helps to plan your menu around the sales offered by your store, especially when it comes to the more expensive ingredients of a meal, like meat. And don’t be afraid to try store brands to see if they will work well for you. With some items, the quality is not discernible. But, with others, you may want to spend the extra money. You can also consider using a warehouse club to save money by buying in bulk.
