Lauren Weatherford, a WVU Extension agent, recommends sticking to outdoor aisles at the grocery store — like the produce aisle — to help control food costs and reduce household expenses at a time when prices for many goods are rising. .
(WVU Photo)
With inflation at a 40-year high leading to higher prices for groceries, gas and other goods, West Virginia University the expert offers some tips to save on household expenses.
Lauren Weatherford, a WVU Extension family and community development agent, says now is a good time to completely review how family dollars are being spent at the grocery store and elsewhere.
Quotes:
“Many of the tried and true cost-saving methods still work. Start by assessing how much you’re spending now and on what. This will help you make important choices between your wants and needs. You’ll want to take a good, honest look at what you’re spending when and where.”
“Let’s start with the food. If you have receipts, collect them both from the grocery store and from restaurants where you eat out. You can often find this information in your bank account and credit card details. Some store apps keep detailed records of what you spend. Don’t forget to include extras. Did you stop at the coffee shop or convenience store this week? How about that last minute meal on a busy evening? Most of us spend more than we think we do. When you start to see where you’re spending, on which items and for how much, you may find that you can make some changes quickly. Then really think about your wants and needs. These are different for everyone. Have a conversation with other decision makers in your family and see where you can cut back.”
“Many of us know that eating at home is a good idea, but did you know that eating at home can be healthier and save money? Making a grocery list is a great cost-saving measure. And when you plan your meals ahead of time, you’re more likely to avoid eating out and provide more balanced, healthier meals.”
“Start checking your weekly sales. Many stores rotate the same items on sale every few weeks or in time for certain holidays. If you can, start tracking how often something like eggs or butter goes on sale, then you can predict when to buy them at lower prices. Many stores offer additional digital savings. Check the app before you go to the store. Sign up for coupons or discounts may be added. Look for traditional coupons on paper, in the mail and at the cash register.”
“Shop outside the store first. Here you will find fresh food. Get the items you need first, then go through the corridors. Skip the corridors that have items you don’t need. Avoid the items at the end of the corridor. These items are designed to stimulate impulse purchases and the prices are not always the cheapest.
“Convenience foods that are packaged and processed for longer shelf life are located in the aisle. These may cost more for less food. Use your calculator and compare prices. It can be less expensive to buy a box of pasta and a can of pasta sauce than individually microwaveable packages.”
“Finally, consider buying store brands instead of name brands. Some of these items have exactly the same content/ingredients and come from the same suppliers, but with different packaging. They often offer significant savings.” – Lauren Weatherford, Family and Community Development Agent, Fayette and Nicholas Counties, WVU Extension
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tec/10/20/22
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