Eating on a Budget

The fear of financial meltdown and layoff notices has forced people to explore ways of eating on a budget. However, certain unwanted myths put off people when it comes to eating on a budget. As many of you think, eating on a budget definitely does not mean that you have to consume food with lower quality and price.

You can still have quality meals within your budget, provided you have a smart plan before you shop. Draft a neat list before you head for the supermarket next time. Avoid shopping for junk foods, alcohol and foods that are high in saturated fats. Most of them are not healthy and are often expensive too.

Do not shop on an empty stomach. This might reduce your temptation to shop for junk foods or snacks that are costly. Shop the peripheral areas of the store as it might have the collection of healthier foods, which are generally inexpensive.

Choosing the right product that does not burn the hole in your pocket is imperative as you plan for eating on a budget. Following are certain tips that come handy when you shop for eating on a budget without compromising your health.

Eating on a budget tips

Grain products - Try whole grains, macaroni, bread, rolled oats and hot cereals. Chose plain pasta shapes like macaroni and spaghetti, which are generally cheaper than the fancy shapes. Whole grains cereals are the best compared to sugary ones and are more economical and nutritious as well. When shopping for whole grain cereals ensure that it has less than 5 grams of sugar and at least 2 grams of fiber. Avoid rice and pasta mixes, as they are costlier than plain rice and pasta. Try long grain rice, especially the brown rice that is rich in nutrients. Long grain rice is mostly half the cost of minute rice and takes only 15 minutes to cook.

Milk Products - Skim milk powder, evaporated milk, cheddar cheeses, and plain yogurt might help you for budget friendly eating. Skim milk powder is rich in calcium and proteins and could be used for cooking, baking in sauces, pudding, soups, hot cooked cereal, mashed potatoes and pasta dishes. Add 75 ml of skim mild powder to 250 ml of water and use it in places of fluid milk. Buy plain yogurt and flavor it yourself by adding your favorite fruit.

Vegetables and Fruits - Buy plain, bagged frozen vegetables instead of the boxed ones. Frozen vegetables are usually inexpensive and are lower in fat and salt. Avoid shopping for cut-vegetables. Pre-cut your vegetables at home and store them in the refrigerator. While buying juices, avoid beverages labeled 'fruit drink', 'fruit punch', or 'fruit beverage' that are generally high in sugar and contain little fruit extracts. Buy juices labeled 100% fruit juice. The best buy would be frozen orange juice concentrate.

Meats and Alternatives - As everyone knows, meats are the most expensive item on the food budget. Considering your budget, you can try some cheap alternatives instead of full meats. Buy cut meats and preserve them. Dried or canned beans and lentils could be an ideal alternate for meat. They are rich in fiber and lower in fat and are inexpensive too. Purchase utility grade poultry and plain frozen fish that are usually cheaper.

Understand shopping for generic brands could help you in planning your eating on budget. Remember, generic brands share the same nutritional values of the food and are no different from branded ones.

If you plan to meal out then have lunch on a Saturday than a dinner, which is generally cheaper. Some restaurants let you order the lunch portion of the meal alone that is inexpensive. Find out whether the restaurant has a carryout option. This might save you from tipping a server and have beverage of your choice at home.