Even though I know food prices are rising rapidly, I still almost about fell over when I saw that a favorite box of snack mix had risen to $5.99! I left the snack mix on the shelf. This was the same day that we stopped for three slices of pizza, no drinks, at a cost of more than $9. Ouch. I won’t be doing that again any time soon.
It doesn’t look like food prices will be going down or even stabilizing any time soon. This means that we have to adapt and find ways to fight this food inflation in order to be able to feed our families and to save money.
Price Per Unit Labels
The price per unit labels are a good tool that you can use to help fight food inflation. As food shrinkage continues to occur (manufacturers put less product in their packaging in an attempt to fool the customer into thinking that the cost of the product is inexpensive), knowing exactly how much a product costs per ounce, pound or unit will help you make the best choices in your purchases. For example, in my region, a certain brand of yogurt used to cost $.89 for 8 ounces. It now costs $1.45 for only 6 ounces. That is an increase in price and a reduction in the amount of product. A different brand costs $1.59, but includes 8 ounces of product. To the eye, the containers look to be the same size.
Packaging
While bulk purchases aren’t always the cheapest (check that unit pricing), most times excess packaging means that you can probably get the product for less. Avoid the snack packs and the convenient individual size pouches. Invest in some reusable containers and dole out servings instead. Even if you choose to purchase disposable baggies, you will still save about 30 percent. For a cheaper option, use plastic wrap. A couple of cookies or a serving of crackers wrapped in plastic wrap is secure and economical.
Related Articles:
Saving Money on Health Food and Vitamins
Preparing for the Warehouse Grocery Store