- Eat Locally: I can't stress this enough, which is why it's the number one on this list. If you eat foods that are grown closer to home they keep longer and can therefore save money.
- Grow it yourself: even the blackest of thumbs can grow an herb garden. Try your hand at container gardens or windowsill planters and check out THIS SITE for ideas!
- Buy in bulk: If your family eats a ton of brown rice, why not buy it in ton-sized bags? Seriously, not having to buy it in smaller quantities saves time and gas over the long run because you use less packaging and make fewer trips to the store.
- Eat in season: Fruits and vegetables typically grow only during certain times of year, so if you buy these foods during the peak time, there will be more of them to go around and they'll be less expensive!
- Preservation is key: If you buy in bulk and buy in season you can freeze, dry or can the overflow, you will have delicious foods all year long, regardless of the season.
- Grains and beans: These are often overlooked as being the powerhouses of nutrition that they are. Together they can make some amazing meals and provide tons of good stuff, like protein, fiber and curb hunger longer. Plus, they keep (when stored well) for a very long time.
- Avoid packaged foods: These things can be quite expensive and can also have too much in them like calories and sodium. Read labels but remember that cooking at home cuts costs way down!
- Make a list: These places are constructed to get you to buy more and buy certain items. Don't fall for it! If you go when you're stressed, hungry or without a list, you're likely to forget things you need and buy things you don't.
Course blog for students enrolled in ASU's Nutrition in the Media, Spring 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
8 ways to eat on a budget
Hard times have hit most American households recently, and while the economy might be picking up in some areas, it's not in others. Here are some easy ways to eat great, even on a budget!
These are great options for people who are eating on a budget. I think most people think they should invest in crackers, soups and macaroni to eat cheap food that lasts. Learning to take advantage of your local market is an awesome way to save money on produce. Farmers markets are often much cheaper than buying from the grocery store. Plus you know where your food is coming from, always a plus. I think the ease of finding everything at your local Fry's often seems more appealing to people with the busy lives we all live. But there is definitely a cost that comes with convenience. Great blog!
ReplyDeleteI think that these are great suggestions for people who aren't the best grocery shoppers. Not only can this list teach people how to save a dollar or two, it can also help people eat a little healthier as well. Eating locally and and food that is in season is a great way to get the most nutritious fruits and vegetables and they all come at a pretty cheap price. I also like how you suggested that people go to the store with a set list. Going to the store with a list is a way to get in and out of the store fast with only what you need.
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