How to Budget for Food

Here are some good tips on stretch your Food money.
1. Buy foods in season for they are cheaper than out-of-season foods.
2. Make a list of what you will buy before leaving for the grocery or market.
3. Check your supplies while making out your shopping list.
4. If your budget is limited, don't buy luxury items on impulse.
5. Buy perishable foods only as you need them.
6. Buy food of good quality.
7. It is cheaper to buy basic supplies like rice, sugar, salt, oil and seasonings in large amounts.
8. Compare prices in different market stalls or grocery stores.
9. Buy only as much as the family can eat.
10. You can use evaporated milk instead of fresh milk in some menu.
11. In buying canned or bottled goods, read the labels carefully.
12. You can use other protein-rich foods like tofu, beans or eggs in some dishes instead of meat.
13. To avoid waste, cook just enough food for meal and serve small to medium portions.
14. It is all right to buy in large quantities if the price is less, provided you have space for proper storage.
15. Plan meal for several days at one time.
16. If you can not be home for every meal, carry foods or "baon" with you.
17. Try to minimize waste in food preparation.
18. If you have time and space, grow some vegetables you need in the garden.
19. If you have oven, make your own bread, cookies and cakes.
20. Use margarine instead of butter for it is cheaper and more healthful.
21. If buying vegetables, check the color and buy only what you can use right away.
22. Buy at a convenient time. If you are in a hurry, you will do your shopping randomly, thereby wasting both time and money.

Source: Best Recipes For The Home