When money gets tight, food, unfortunately, just cannot be cut out of the budget. Well, I imagine one could do that, but it’s not a healthy way to save money. It is entirely possible to get more for your money at the grocery store. Change where you shop, what brands you buy and what types of products you purchase and you will soon see some significant savings.

Food Co-ops

Food co-ops are not a new idea, but they have had a resurgence in recent years as people are finding the need to stretch their food budgets further and further. Food co-ops work a little like an Israeli kibbutz – everyone donates a little of their time/labor and in exchange gets to reap the benefits of communally buying goods in bulk. Most co-ops will require a nominal membership fee and perhaps a “set-up” or “processing” fee, which is usually even smaller than the membership fee. This, plus, some pre-determined amount of work per month earns you the right to shop at the store, where perishables and goods can be 20% – 40% less than at traditional supermarkets.

Store Brands

I know, some things you just have to have a certain brand of – Boar’s Head Virginia Ham is a personal favorite – but other foodstuffs? Be willing to bend a little on. For example, I love coffee. I mean, really, really love it, but when it comes time to buy more, I go with whatever is on sale and I always get the “Breakfast Blend”. I have yet to have a bad bag of coffee this way and have managed to save up to $4 some weeks on coffee alone! Frozen pizza? Try the store brand and get your own toppings – it will be even tastier than your usual frozen pizza and you’ll have extra cheese and toppings for a salad, sandwich, or omelette. You’d be surprised how delicious store-brand cookies and crackers are, as well. Often, the factory making your “name brand” cookie is the same one making the store’s signature brand.

But Changing What Types of Food I Eat?!

Sounds like I’m asking too much? I’m not, really, and you would be surprised how much you can adapt to new “favorites” when you really have to. What was your favorite snack? Mine is a Kashi granola bar. But if I wanted to be smart about my afternoon snack, financially and health-wise, I could substitute a piece of fruit – always plentiful and generally dirt cheap. Though berries should be avoided when trying to stretch a dollar – they tend to be the most expensive of the fruits. Instead of buying sliced roast beef at the deli, buy a roast and cook it yourself – it will last all week for sandwiches. And speaking of sandwiches – have you been buying deli rolls for your sandwiches? Or an expensive 9-grain bread? Try a sliced Italian bread or Potato Bread – both are delicious and are generally very inexpensive.

Just Be Flexible

My advice is to try new things – think of this as a revival (or awakening) of your inner culinary master! New foods, new brands, new places – the recipe is in there for significant savings.