Monday, August 22, 2011
"How to Live Well on well on a fixed income"
I'm a retiree dependent largely on Social Security, and struggle making my food budget last the month with the ever increasing costs of groceries, especially meats and dairy products. I have now adopted a savings plan that permits me to eat well on nutritious (non-GMO) foods, including a variety of meats, fresh vegetables and fruits in season.
All it takes is some discipline, careful checking of when and which stores have sales, comparison shopping, using coupons when these are available, and buying in bulk if affordable, and if storage space is available. It is amazing the price differences in both vegetables and meats (up to 35%) between stores that wish to move merchandise and those that do not have these price breaks. Ask an grocery store worker in the produce or meat departments when they expect the next sales, and what in particular they plan on reducing inventory and they'll be happy to tell you.
If you know your neighbors well, ask if any of them would be interested in joining a food club or forming a co-op with a local farmer. Check www.coopdirectory..org to find more information about food co-ops and buying clubs near you. You will find that the savings from joining one of these entities can amount 50% of the cost of the same produce in a grocery store, with fresher products.
It also pays to select and use products that are in season, rather than relying on and paying for crops and fruit that have been imported or shipped across the country. Our modern grocery stores are replete with all manner of non seasonal fruits and vegetables, but the downside of buying these attractively laid out displays is the huge increase in cost.
Finally, as most grocery stores depend on impulse buying when you're in the store, make a list of what you truly really need and keep to it.
I use these tips and the information I have researched and given here, and as a result I eat well and within my limited budget...all it takes is some research, into where and what the great buys are, and the discipline (it actually becomes fun to a shrewd and careful foodie) and your pocketbook will thank you, as will your level of health and vitality.
Be Well... it's the only imperative!!
Posted by Francis Crawford at 6:49 PM
