Saving money on food largely depends on your lifestyle, but you also need a strong resolution to ensure that you don’t spend unnecessarily and eat healthy. Even the most careful and organized person might be tempted to indulge in impulsive buying, which will lead to the expenses shooting up. A list typically helps, but an open mind and a desire to make smart choices gives the best results in the long term. Here are some things to consider if you want to save money on food:

1. Shop wisely
Making a list of the items you want from the store before you go is the most effective way of keeping a check on the money you spend. Ensure that you draw up your list after checking the items stocked in your pantry so that you don’t spend on the same food items again. You can also use coupons on as many items as possible to avail of the discounts while shopping. Structure your shopping in such a manner that your trips to the supermarket are around the sales and offers period as this will help you save money on food. Try buying in bulk and stocking food in your pantry for future use. Cooking in bulk and storing it in the freezer for future use is also an effective technique.

2. Opt for local produce
Most well-known brands use local products, and even you can do the same. The big players look for their specification on ingredients being delivered and choose to use the local products to save on manufacturing and distribution costs. As long as the ingredients are in the health checklist, you should opt for store brands or locally manufactured brands, which will most likely cost you less. Along with helping you to save money on food, they will most likely be fresher, with a lot more nutrients packed in.

3. Replace meat with lighter options
While meat products are rich in proteins, it is healthier to not have meat once or twice a week. You can substitute the expensive meat, fish, and poultry with healthy and cheaper options like beans, eggs, tofu, and legumes. Eggs make for an excellent source of protein and can be had in all 3 meals or even in small portions as snacks. Buying whole chicken instead of slit portions of meat and picking up “family packs” rather than single pieces also helps save money on food.

4. Use the leftovers wisely
Only counting the nutrients doesn’t make it easier to be innovative in the kitchen. Keeping a tab on how to use the leftovers of chicken, vegetables, and fruits is a task that can help you save up in the long run. Tossing some green vegetables, fruits, and leftover chicken on a bed of fresh vegetables can make a meal very interesting. You can also make a snack or breakfast with leftovers from the previous meal. Leftover veggies, poultry, or meat can also be used in simple dishes like soups, salads, or stews, ensuring that both money and food is not wasted.