How to Beat Rising Food Costs
Food costs are once again on the rise in Canada. In particular, meat and fruit prices are expected to increase significantly over the next few months.
As food costs continue to rise, use these tips to eat healthy within your budget.
Take advantage of sales. Take the time to look through the weekly flyers, find the sales, make a shopping list and stick to it. This really does help save money!
Check out the bargain bins and shelves. Although I just advised you to stick to your list, don’t pass on great deals in the bargain bins. Always check them out, but buy only items that you would normally buy or can make great use of.
Stock up. Stock up on items that store well when they are on sale – such as pastas, crackers, cereals and rice (store in airtight containers), bread (store in the freezer) and meats, poultry and fish (store in the freezer). Be careful not to stock up on items that you won’t use up – if you end up throwing a portion of it out you’re not likely to save money.
Go vegetarian more often. Meat alternatives such as beans and legumes are typically less expensive than meat – they are also packed with protein and fibre. Try vegetarian chili, bean tacos or lentil soup. And don’t forget eggs. Omelettes, quiche and frittatas are great at any meal.
Prepare from scratch more often. Plain unprocessed foods are less expensive than processed and/or pre-seasoned items. Be prepared by compiling a list of fast, easy recipes to rotate through.
Don’t avoid frozen and canned. It is okay to include some frozen and canned fruits and vegetables into a healthy diet. Some things to look for:
- Choose plain frozen items without added sauces, sodium or sugar.
- Avoid canned fruit packed in heavy syrup.
- Compare canned vegetables and choose those lowest in sodium.
- Rinse canned vegetables to remove some of the sodium.
