Nutrition Education
Having enough good for the entire month can be a challenge, especially when money is limited. Below are ways to stretch those food dollars so you can get the most food and nutrition for your money.
| 1. Take an inventory. Look at what food you currently have on hand. Use those foods as a starting point for planning meals. |
6. Bend, stoop and stretch your way to lower food costs. Store brands are often found on the lowest shelves but they are often equal in quality and taste to the more popular (an expensive) national brands. |
| 2. Plan your meals. Knowing what you are going to prepare for meals and snacks can help you make your shopping list. |
7. Don't shop when you are hungry. Shopping when you are hungry increases impulse buying - and it is often for foods that are not the most healthful. |
| 3. Study grocery store ads before shopping. If you know what is on sale before you go to the store, you can plan your meals to get the most out of your food dollar. |
8. Use convenience foods wisely. In general, the more someone else prepares your food, the more you are going to pay for it. |
| 4. Make a list. A written list of what you need help you stay focused at the store. This can help reduce impulse buys and can help ensure that you get what you need so you don't have to make multiple trips to the store. |
9. Cut back on food with little or no nutrition (i.e. soda, chips, cookies, candy). Eating these foods less often means more more money for healthier foods. |
5. Compare prices with unit pricing. Unit price is the cost of an item per unit such as per ounce, slice, pound, etc. By looking at the unit price, you can compare costs of similar items that may be packaged in different size containers. |
10. Use coupons wisely. Even with a coupon, the store brand of a food item may be cheaper. |
This material was funded in whole or part by USDA's Food Stamp program. In accordance with Federal Law and USDA policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave. S.W., Washington, D.C., 20250-9410 or call (800)795-3272 (voice) or (202)720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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