Posted in Simple and Frugal Living
Most of us are very careful when we shop for groceries. We scout the sales for loss leaders, buy in bulk, buy seasonally, purchase from local markets, etc. When we find something of exceptional value, we stock up; do we not?
However, this can lead to a loss of money. Don't believe me? How many times have you stocked up on seasonal produce, only to find some that has gotten over ripe or rotten and then throw it away? Have you bought things in bulk (be them grains, beans, canned goods, paper supplies, etc) and then don't use all of the stock you bought? I would be willing to guess that you have items stored that are now out of date but were purchased at an exceptional value. Yet, there is no value if you do not use the item and must dispose of it.
If you truly are seeking to lower your grocery bill, I have a challenge for you. Each week go through your fridge and pantry. Take note if items that are nearing expiration and pick one or two ways to use them in the following few days; try a new recipe, make an old favorite, or prepare the food for further storage in the freezer. Do something with the items, but use them. If you attempt to think this way, you will likely come up with one or two meals per week that won't require you to purchase anything else. In this way, you will have saved big time! Firstly, you will save because you will use the items you purchased at rock bottom prices. Secondly, you will not have to purchase food for those days that meals are prepared from what old stock you have on hand. Anyway you look at it, your wallet will thank you.
These are my thoughts.
Leslie Valeska
~Contributing Writer~
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