16 Ways To Save Money on Food Now That Prices Are Rising

andresr / iStock.com
andresr / iStock.com

If you're like most people, the biggest check you write each month is for your mortgage or rent. However, the amount you spend at the supermarket might be a close second. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans spend $4,363 on food eaten at home every year -- which is roughly 6% of the average person's pretax income.

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As if that wasn't enough, the global coronavirus pandemic has skyrocketed food prices and made it more difficult for those already scraping to get by. But you might not have to reconcile yourself to a diet of ramen noodles to protect your budget. Learn how to be a smart shopper by completely avoiding common grocery store mistakes.

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Shutterstock.com

Seek Out Manager Markdowns

When buying food, especially meat, always be on the lookout for manager markdowns.

"Manager markdowns offer savings of up to 50% off on meat, poultry and fish nearing its expiration date," said Andrea Woroch, a consumer and money-saving expert. "Plan your meal around these manager markdowns, then cook what you want to eat right away and freeze the rest for later so it doesn't spoil."

Meat can very well be the priciest part of your grocery purchase. If you buy during a 50% markdown, you could easily save money each month.

Read: 25 Cheap Frozen Foods That Are Actually Good for You

Jon Schulte / Shutterstock.com
Jon Schulte / Shutterstock.com

Always Buy Generic -- Seriously

If you want to save big, go generic -- there's a big window for savings.

"Canned goods, dried pasta, cereal, baking staples like flour and sugar, and even spices are good examples of generic or store brands that are just as good as name brands," said Woroch.

And nowadays, every big-box store has its own brand, which is usually half the cost. Woroch said this strategy can save you 30% to 50% on your grocery bill.

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FatCamera / Getty Images
FatCamera / Getty Images

Shop on Wednesdays

You also need to know when to buy certain items. And timing is everything.

"Wednesdays are the best day to shop for food, as this is when most supermarkets release new circulars, ensuring you have the first pick of the top deals," said Woroch.

She added that stores typically also honor last week's deals, so you'll likely have bonus sale items to choose from as well.

Find Out: Shopping Mistakes You're Making and How To Stop

wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock.com
wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock.com

Figure Out Your Store's Sales Cycles

Stores typically run all sales on a cycle. According to Tracie Fobes of Penny Pinchin' Mom, you should create a way to follow these sales -- it's as simple as tracking prices of things you buy often in what she calls a "price book."