There are many different cost equations for saving money on groceries, and each family has a different cost-benefit analysis of time vs. money.  High quality food is something that I value, so I probably spend more time and money food shopping, but I am always looking for the best way to get the most value for the least amount of money.

Shop around:  Usually I shop at various stores because I know I can get better deals on certain products. With the brands and products I prefer and use regularly, I know what a good average price is for the item and watch for sales or bulk savings (bulk isn’t always cheaper).

Choose where to spend your money:  In the summer I spend more to shop at our local farmer’s market to get high quality local produce.  My sister and many friends use AmazonFresh (available in the Seattle area) for grocery delivery, which saves time, money, and gas.

Use the freezer to optimize sales and bulk:  I use the freezer a lot to save money on groceries.  This allows me to buy larger quantities when I find items on sale or in bulk.

• I buy meat when it is on sale and have it wrapped in the quantity that I will use it (1lb ground meat, 2 chicken breasts, 4 pork chops, etc.), and then I put it in the freezer.
• I buy most of our bread at Costco and freeze tortillas, sliced bread, and buns.

Meal Planning and the Feeding Your Family System:  The number one way I save money on groceries is to use the Feeding Your Family System to do a better job of planning, and therefore using, the food I buy so that we waste less.

Not surprisingly, a big priority in our household is what we eat, so it usually takes up a good chunk of our monthly budget. We don’t eat out often, and that makes me feel better about what I do spend at the grocery store. Given the limited time and desire to grocery shop, I usually confine it to once a week at one store. Occasionally I will supplement from other places, like Trader Joe’s or smaller specialty markets, when time allows. By planning my meals for the week and trying to do a major shopping trip only once a week, we waste less and save money. I definitely allow some flexibility in the meal plan in case I get to the store and see a good deal on something I know my family will eat or use.