Getting your children to eat healthily is sometimes difficult in it self, add a low budget to the equation and it can seem impossible.
With a family to support, we are all looking for ways to save money; at the supermarket is no exception. Between our kids pestering us for unhealthy snacks and nutritious food often bearing a hefty price tag, the supermarket shop can seem like a real mission. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive; all you need is some pre planning and a little know-how to spot a good deal.
Alan Jones, a financial advisor and father to ten year oldElizabethshares some tips on saving money when feeding your family:
*Plan your meals for the week ahead, write a shopping list and stick to it. This will help you avoid impulse purchases that you do not need and may not use.
*Limit the junk food that you buy. Items such as fizzy drinks, processed foods and pre-packaged meals are often expensive and low in nutrition, cut these out and you could save a fortune.
*Eat out less. Try to limit eating out with your family to special occasions, as eating out is often expensive. The money you save you could spend on your supermarket shop.
*Shop wisely. Opt for supermarket branded products instead of leading brands as they will be cheaper and will often be the same quality.
*Search out markets. Many towns and cities have fresh produce markets which sell meat, fruit and vegetables, often cheaper than they are in the supermarkets. If you go towards the end of the market, some vender’s may sell the last of their stock at a discounted rate, saving you more money.
*Shop around. Try shopping at frozen food and discount stores for some of the items on your shopping list as they often have special offers that are far better than in the leading supermarkets. Seasonal produce is often cheaper at these stores, as are foods such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cheese.
*Buy in bulk. Meat is often sold in larger portions at a lower price. Split packages up into meal-size portions and freeze for later use.
*Buy seasonal products. Fruit and vegetables that are in season tend to be cheaper and better quality, buy them buy the bag instead of by the piece and you will save even more money.
