The cost of living is taxing consumers of late and it is sometimes hard to manage expenses – especially when inflation raises the prices of necessities like food.
Luckily, there are a few ways to save on the monthly food bill. Being frugal and finding clever ways to save on daily expenses will contribute to greater savings at the end of every month.
The freezer is your friend
Make the freezer your new best friend by shopping combos and deals on fresh produce, meat and groceries. Fresh produce and meat can be bought in bulk when it is on promotion, then carefully frozen to be used at another time. Look out for Food Lover’s Market’s weekly specials, deal days (such as Ten Buck Tuesday and Fifty Buck Friday) and promotional campaigns, such as the Summer, Winter and Spring Carnivals.
Plan ahead
Most people know how important it is to do your grocery shopping with a grocery list. A good idea is to map out meals a week in advance, plan what you need and monitor local ads and leaflets for specials. Food Lover’s Market advertises their specials in the local press and on their website: https://foodloversmarket.co.za/specials/
ALSO READ: 5 ways to save money as the cost of living rises
House brands are affordable and tasty
House brands have come a long way in the last decade and offer value to the savvy shopper. You don’t have to worry about sacrificing taste and quality and you’re looking at spending significantly less as well.
Stock up on versatile (and hearty) staple foods
Shop for fresh and pantry foods that can be cross-utilised in a variety of recipes. For example, root vegetables can last for a while in the fridge, along with canned goods. Rice, pasta and grains have a long shelf-life. These can be a base for many meals. Another way to bring down the monthly food bill is to stock your pantry with seasonings, oils and kinds of vinegar that are on sale to ensure meals are delicious and satisfying.
Pick a weekly splurge (yes, really!)
It might sound counterintuitive, but picking a weekly treat – whether it is your favourite yoghurt, chocolate or a bag of root vegetable chips – can help prevent spending unnecessary monies on takeaways or snacks throughout the week.
Be strategic about what you buy
Prevent waste by sorting through your fridge and kitchen cupboard every week and putting perishables that need to be used in one area. You can then give them priority when planning your next meal, even freezing them for later.
Save on bags and packaging and be environmentally friendly
Plastic bags are not only bad for the environment but add up if you’re buying them each time you shop. Food Lover’s Market offers paper bags, canvas bags, free farmers’ boxes and sturdier branded boxes at a minimal cost. These packaging items, once bought, can be popped into the car and retrieved every time you shop at a Food Lover’s – ensuring you save the environment and your budget.
(Information: Food Lover’s Market)
ALSO READ: Fight childhood obesity: Shop for healthy food on a budget
