Whether you’re moving into a new home or trying to figure out how much to budget for groceries each month, it’s important to know exactly what you need. That way, you can save money and avoid impulse buys.
The average American household spends around $387 per month on food, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right amount for your family. Instead, try one of the food plans created by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Meat
It’s no secret that meat makes up a big part of many food budgets. But there are ways to stretch your dollar and your tummy.
Start by dividing up your monthly household grocery list into sections. This will make it much easier to navigate and less likely to forget what you’re looking for! Also, make sure you have a clear vision of your goals. A monthly budget may be a challenge, but it’s possible to stay within your means and still enjoy the finer things in life. The key is planning ahead and keeping an eye out for deals! This will not only save you money but give you more time to do the things you love.
Dairy
Dairy foods, such as milk, yogurt, cheese and unsweetened calcium-fortified dairy alternatives like soya milk and yoghurt, are nutrient rich and part of a healthy diet. They can help build strong bones and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
However, consuming dairy can also be problematic for some people, particularly those who have allergies to cow’s milk or are lactose intolerant or are pregnant. For those reasons, we encourage choosing dairy products from local family farms.
Fruits & Vegetables
One of the smartest moves you can make is to buy fresh fruits and vegetables when they’re in season, which can save you money. You can also freeze or canned produce to extend their shelf life, which is another great way to stretch your grocery budget.
Cucumbers are a good choice for this list because they’re affordable, easy to cook with, and can be added to a number of dishes. For example, you can slice them into a healthy salad with hummus or add a few to a soup. It’s also a good idea to pick up some yogurt. It’s a cool way to get a boost of protein and fiber in the morning.
Breads & Pastries
Breads and pastries are two types of baked goods that many people love to consume. They come in a variety of different styles and can be sweet or savory depending on the ingredients used.
If you’re a baker, adding items for baking to your list can make it easier to prepare homemade muffins or cookies when you get a craving. Having a variety of flours, sugars, and other baking ingredients on hand can make it much easier to create new recipes that you’ll enjoy.
Groceries
Getting your grocery shopping right is crucial to keeping your food costs in check. Whether you’re moving into a new home or just want to save a bit of money, creating a monthly household grocery list can help you shop smarter and stay within your budget.
Start by making a basic list of everything you need to buy from the store on a regular basis, including pantry staples, a dairy section, produce and a miscellaneous section. This will help you avoid impulse buying and make sure you’re not spending more than you need to on essentials. Then, you can create a categorized grocery list based on meals that you cook throughout the week.
