Food prices are a hot topic at the moment, with the latest figures from Stats NZ showing food costs were 12% higher in February 2023 than they were in February 2022. Grocery food was the largest contributor to this. Here are five different ways you can try to optimise your food budget:
1. Plan your meals ahead of time
One of the easiest ways to save money on food is to plan your meals ahead of time. By knowing what you're going to eat each day, you can make a grocery list of only the items you need, reducing the amount of food waste and impulse buying. Another part of this, is knowing how much you have allocated in your budget to spend on food to start with.
Then think about what you want to eat for the week ahead and make a list of the ingredients you'll need. Try to plan meals that use similar ingredients so that you can buy in bulk and avoid having to purchase small quantities of different items. For example, if you plan to make a stir fry, you could also plan to make a curry using the same vegetables.
2. Shop around for the best deals
Another way to save money on food is to shop around for the best deals. Don't just stick to one supermarket, as different stores may have different prices for the same items. Take the time to compare prices at different supermarkets and specialty stores, and don't forget to check out online options like online grocery stores and delivery services. PriceSpy is a website that allows you to compare prices on a wide range of products, including groceries. Ordering your groceries online might reduce temptation to buy food you don’t need when you are in store and keeps a running total of your grocery spend so you can check and adjust before you complete your order. You can also save money by buying in bulk, especially if you have a larger family. Look for deals on larger quantities of non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and canned goods, as well as frozen items like vegetables and meat.
3. Buy seasonal produce
Buying seasonal produce is another great way to save money on food. Not only is seasonal produce usually cheaper, but it's also fresher and tastier. Look for fruits and vegetables that are in season, and plan your meals around them. For example, in summer you might want to make salads with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce, while in winter you might use root vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Another tip is to shop at local farmers' markets, where you can often find fresh, seasonal produce at lower prices than at supermarkets. Not only does this support local farmers, but it can also be a fun way to discover new foods.
4. Cook from scratch
Cooking from scratch is not only healthier, but also can be cheaper than buying pre-made meals or takeout. By making your own meals, you can control the quality and quantity of ingredients, and also avoid the extra costs associated with packaging and convenience.
Start by cooking simple meals that don't require too many ingredients or too much time. You can also make extra portions to freeze for later, which will save you time and money in the long run.
5. Reduce food waste
Finally, reducing food waste is another great way to save money on food. By being mindful of what you're buying and how you're storing it, you can avoid throwing away food that has gone bad. Start by checking your fridge and pantry regularly to make sure you're using up items before they expire. You can also freeze items like bread and meat to extend their shelf life, and use up leftovers in new meals. Don't be afraid to get creative with leftovers, as they can often be turned into delicious new meals.
If food prices keep going up, we’re going to have to get more creative with our budgets. But these five ways to reduce your food spending are a start. By planning ahead, shopping around, buying seasonal produce, cooking from scratch, and reducing food waste, you can save money on your grocery bill without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Happy saving!
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The information contained on this site is the opinion of the individual author(s) based on their personal opinions, observation, research, and years of experience. The information offered by this website is general education only and is not meant to be taken as individualised financial advice, legal advice, tax advice, or any other kind of advice.