The United States Department of Agriculture recommends the average family of four set aside $1,000 every month for their food budget. For some families, this isn't a problem. Other families, however, may not have as much money in their food budget. Fortunately, there are steps everyone can take that will help stretch their food budget and still provide their family with healthy meals.



Plan Your Meals

Set aside 30–60 minutes each week to make a meal plan. Spend time perusing the ads from the grocery stores you routinely shop at. Consider checking out the circulars from stores you don't normally shop at as well. Jot down the best sales and deals at each grocery store as you look through the ads. Once you have finished going through each one, go over your notes.

You may decide you only want to shop at one store, or you may decide grabbing the best deals from a few different stores is best for your budget and time constraints. Regardless, incorporate the deals you find into your meal plan for the coming week.

Ask Your Grocer When They Do Their Markdowns

Virtually every store ends up reducing prices on meat each day. This meat can either be used the same day or frozen for future use. Stores will often reduce produce that is nearing the end of peak freshness, too.

For example, you may find a good deal on brown bananas, which you can use to make banana bread or breakfast muffins. If you know when to find the daily deals, you can drastically reduce your expenditures. 

Incorporate Meatless Mondays

If you join the Meatless Monday movement, you will be joining a global initiative with the goal of reducing meat consumption by 15 percent for both individual health as well as that of the planet. By cutting out meat just one day a week, you will be reducing your personal meat consumption as well as your food budget as non-animal protein sources are typically less expensive.

For example, beans are inexpensive yet still an excellent source of protein and high in fiber. Simple meals such as red beans and rice or a hearty minestrone served with a side salad and whole grain bread are nutrient-rich as well as quick, easy, and cheap.

Take Advantage of Modern Appliances 

Families today are often extremely busy. Between working and children's schoolwork and extracurricular activities, it can be all too tempting to order takeout or grab fast food. Unfortunately, this decision can blow your food budget. It's also not likely to be the healthiest option.

Slow cookers and the updated instant pressure cookers can make getting a nutritious meal on the table much quicker. Vacuum sealers are also great for making the most of your food budget. Whenever you find good deals on produce, meat, or other bulk products, you can divide the food up into portions that are the right size for your family. Your food will stay fresh longer and frozen foods will be safe from freezer burn.

Repurpose Your Leftovers

Children, as well as adults, can be picky about eating leftovers. By turning them into something else, you can prevent food waste and keep your family happy. For example, Sunday's baked chicken can be Tuesday's tacos.

Leftovers make great lunches and they are also good for turning into soups or casseroles. Alternatively, you can purchase reusable plastic or glass containers with compartments and turn your leftovers into frozen TV dinners for quick and easy meals on future busy nights.

Your family's health is important to you, and you likely know how critical it is children are offered an assortment of healthy and nutritious foods if they are going to grow and develop properly. If you have any concerns about your child(ren)'s diet, eating habits, weight, food sensory issues, or your family is experiencing food insecurity, contact us today.