Published to Newsletter on Mar 29, 2022
Inflation sure looks like it will be around for a while – and you are probably already feeling it in your grocery bill. But you don’t have to accept paying more! Here are my top three tips to help you stay within your food budget.
Meats, eggs, and seafood have seen some of the largest price increases. Switching to beans, lentils, and other plant-based proteins can significantly reduce how much you spend. This Tuscan white bean pasta is super tasty and inexpensive to make while still delivering 28g of protein per serving. And you don’t have to give up meat entirely. Try using meat as a condiment to add flavor rather than as a main entrée – for example, adding bacon or a ham hock to your split pea soup.
Fruits and veggie prices haven’t increased quite so much, but if we save on them, it frees up money for other essential items. Frozen vegetables and fruit are probably the best deals at the supermarket. They are inexpensive, high quality, and last way longer than fresh. Canned options are also great. Plus, being shelf-stable, you remove the chance of spending money on food that may go bad. When you choose fresh produce, select foods that are in season, as it will cost less.
Shopping at two or three stores might help to save you money. Prices can vary a lot from store to store (for example, as of this writing, Dave’s Killer Bread is $6.49 a loaf at Target, but $5.58 at Walmart). You’ll have to consider the cost of gas to do this, but it could be a net win. And if you shop online and use curbside pickup, it may not take any more time.
Inflation is frustrating. No one likes spending more on things they need – especially food. But small changes to your shopping plan can make a real difference, helping you keep your food budget balanced. And if you need help building a budget meal plan, take advantage of our nutrition counseling services, free for UNM employees.
Tags: EmployeeWellness, Nutrition, Wellness
