How to Save Money on Food

Food takes up about 11% of the average income, but thats only when it's spent on groceries. But many of us often overspend on this necessity by eating out for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sometimes all three in the same day. In Barbados, the average meal bought in town or at any other restaurants, can cost between $10 to $15 a day. If you buy food five days a week, that's comes up to almost $4000 a year. And that's only if you buy one meal a day. It doesn't seem so tasty now does it?

So how do we curb our spending on food? Here are some tips.

Make your own meals

Cooking your own meals is the best way save on food. In reality, buying groceries can stretch your dollar a lot days or even weeks longer than buying one meal at a time. If you have amore hectic schedule like some of us, try meal prepping for the entire week on Sunday or your off day and put your weekly meal in the fridge. You won't be tempted to buy because you'll always have a delicious meal with you. Feel free to try new recipes and techniques to keep it interesting.

Buy from the farm or market

Local farms like Green Meadows and markets like the Cheapside Market in Bridgetown, are the best way to get the freshest products at the cheapest prices check them out today.

Shop with a list

Shopping with detailed list allows you know what you need, estimate how much you will spend and stops you from overspending. Before you go the supermarket, take a look around your kitchen, in your fridge, cupboards and so on, and note what items you need. You can also write your list by the sections of the store, like vegetables, dairy, canned foods etc to make the shopping process even faster.

Cut down on meat

Meat can be one of the most expensive parts of your food budget. And in my house, one whole chicken costing $17 to $25 will only last for one meal. Try cutting to cheaper cuts of meat like turkey, minced beef and beef stew to help free up your budget. Furthermore, preparing meat free meals, relying on cheap proteins like peas, beans and tofu can be just as delicious. Start doing this a few times a week.

Rely on cheap staples

Staple foods like rice, pasta, potatoes, grains and others should be the bedrock of your food budget, as they are dirt cheap and full of nutrition. Prepare these with a medley of vegetables, sauces and seasonings to make scrumptious meals with appealing price points.

Buy non-branded items

Generic products are usually the same or even better quality than branded products. Plus they're always cheaper. Sometimes the only difference between generic and brand name items is the price. Always choose the better price.