Resident "bargainista" Melissa Porter's money-saving tips:
- It's an oldie but goodie - don't grocery shop hungry. Your wallet will thank you.
- Plan ahead. Shop from a list so you're less inclined to impulse spend. Shop your cupboards first to avoid duplicate purchases. And be ready to change menu plans according to items on sale.
- Stay Organized. If your cupboards and refrigerator are disorganized, you'll miss items that you already have and don't need to buy. A lot of money is wasted due to disorganization.
- Be opportunistic. Look for manager's specials and mark downs within the store. Stock up on non-perishables when they're on sale.
- Try "extreme value" food outlets - such as Grocery Outlet. These outlets purchase overstocks and closeouts directly from manufacturers resulting in prices up to 50% cheaper than conventional retailers. (For locations, visit www.groceryoutlets.com)
- Start cooking. The USDA has estimated that the percentage of middle class household budgets spent on dining out can be as high as 44 percent.
- Beans are ridiculously inexpensive and an excellent source of protein. For ½ cup cooked beans you get 7 grams of protein, 7 grams of fiber, and 12 percent of the RDA for iron.
- Eggs and canned tuna are nutritious, inexpensive sources of protein.
- Single servings are expensive and waste packaging. Buy items such as yogurt and soup in large containers.
