Slash Your Grocery Bill: 6 Proven Strategies to Cut Food Waste and Save Big

Groceries are getting pricier, and it’s frustrating. While you can’t change prices at the store, you can tackle another issue: food waste. Food waste not only harms the environment but also weighs heavily on your budget. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a family of four throws away around $1,500 in uneaten food each year. That’s a lot of money down the drain.

Here are six simple, expert-tested tips to help cut down on food waste and save some cash.

1. Buy in Bulk

Lindsey Chastain, founder of The Waddle and Cluck, recommends bulk buying as a smart way to save. She suggests tracking prices on your phone. For instance, if ground beef is $6-$9 per pound at regular stores but only $5 per pound at Costco, buying in bulk makes sense financially.

2. Make a Meal Plan

Planning meals before shopping helps you avoid buying unnecessary ingredients. Chastain emphasizes the importance of a clear meal plan to use up all your ingredients. Instead of buying a bunch of different meats, try picking one and using it in multiple dishes throughout the week. This way, you’re less likely to let anything spoil.

3. Invest in Food Storage Solutions

Consider investing in good food storage options or learning to can your food. Chastain points out that proper storage can extend the life of your food, so you can take advantage of sales without worrying about items going bad.

4. Start a Garden

Gardening is a fun and rewarding way to produce your own vegetables. Chastain advises that you can grow plants almost anywhere—on a balcony, inside with grow lights, or in your front yard. Fresh home-grown produce can save you money and reduce waste.

5. Monitor Your Fridge’s Temperature

According to Evie Graham, founder of WasteDirect, the temperature inside your fridge can fluctuate, affecting food spoilage. She suggests using a thermometer to find the cold and warm spots in your fridge. By storing food in the right places, you could cut waste by 20-30%. That’s a big win for both your wallet and the environment.

6. Prepare Ingredients Instead of Full Meals

Graham also explains that many people waste food due to changing meal preferences as the week goes on. By preparing individual ingredients instead of complete meals, you give yourself more flexibility. This method has shown to decrease food waste by 40-50%. You’ll still enjoy variety without the stress of committing to meals no one feels like eating later in the week.

Food waste is a significant issue, but with a little planning and smart choices, you can make a difference. By following these tips, not only will you help your budget, but you’ll also contribute to a greener planet.

For more insights on food waste, check out the Environmental Protection Agency’s recommendations on reducing food waste at home here.

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