Seeing the grocery bill climb higher and higher each day is becoming increasingly frustrating. It’s only going to get harder, particularly for people with lower incomes who can’t easily get to discount supermarkets.
According to the United Nations, global food prices hit a record high in February due to rising gas prices and stockpiling by importers. This is having a significant effect on the already unstable cereal markets. The prices of wheat, corn, sugar, and edible oils have surged the most in the past six months. While rice prices have also risen, their increase is somewhat smaller. The cost of produce has already soared and is expected to rise by another 25-33% over the next year.
These rising food costs contribute to extreme poverty and have partly triggered public uprisings that recently toppled leaders in Tunisia and Egypt, sparking further unrest across North Africa and the Middle East.
So, how can an American consumer cope? Here are ten ways to manage the climbing food costs:
1. **Consider Warehouse Stores**
Membership stores might not always have the best prices, and they can tempt you to overspend. However, some deals are worth it. Look for discounts on perishable items at the end of the day when managers are trying to clear out extra stock.
2. **Take Advantage of Coupons**
Get into extreme couponing with the many options available. Look for online coupons, whether they’re codes or printable, and mobile coupons. CellFire is a reliable source for grocery discounts. Also, remember to check the receipts for additional coupons.
3. **Shop at Dollar Stores**
Stores like Dollar General can offer significant savings on various products. Just make sure to check the expiration dates on items.
4. **Leverage Grocery Store Rewards Cards**
These cards are necessary to access store sales and allow you to download coupons directly to the card for immediate discounts at checkout. Some rewards programs also offer gas savings when you buy groceries.
5. **Opt for Generic Products**
Store-brand generics are often much cheaper than name brands without sacrificing quality.
6. **Use Discounted Gift Cards**
Websites like GiftCardGranny offer discounted gift cards for major chains that sell groceries, providing instant savings.
7. **Stick to a Shopping List**
Create a shopping list before you head out to prevent impulse purchases and ensure you don’t buy duplicate items.
8. **Plan Meals in Advance**
A weekly meal plan can make list-making easier and reduce costly, last-minute store trips. Consider creating gourmet meals using discounted meats, produce, and other items from your grocery store.
9. **Shop at a One-Stop Store**
Stores like Target allow you to buy everything you need in one trip, saving time, money, and gas.
10. **Avoid Out-of-Season Produce**
Fruits and vegetables are cheaper when they are in season. Plan your meals around seasonal produce to save money.
Consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch is well-known in both broadcast and print media and is available for interviews to provide more tips on managing rising food costs. Featured on platforms like ABC News NOW, NBC’s Today Show, and FOX & Friends, she has also been quoted by publications including SmartMoney and Kiplinger Personal Finance. Andrea is dedicated to helping people achieve financial freedom by teaching them how to spend smartly without drastically changing their lifestyles. Her practical advice helps turn regular shoppers into savvy consumers.