Wednesday, April 23, 2008

$495.60

That's what the USDA says my family should expect to spend each month for healthy meals. That's the "Thrifty Plan" not the "Low-Cost" or "Moderate-Cost." If I spend almost $500 in one month on food, I think I'd have a heart attack! No really. We do go over our $250 a month food budget quite often, but not that much! I realize that this figure includes 3 meals a day plus all snacks and all are prepared at home, but still! I make Dana's lunches, and take leftovers for my own.

I guess that means we are on the "Super Thrifty Plan." I know we are not alone in our food budget. Maybe some of us should let the USDA know that they are a bit out of touch! I buy all our meat either discounted for quick sale, or at a really low price. I know what ground beef in our area should cost per pound on sale, so when it's right, I buy. I buy our milk discounted for quick sale (a pinch of salt helps keep the milk fresh longer) and with the $1.59 Fiesta Foods coupon which is about once a month. If I can't find either, we quite often go without milk for a few days to a week. The kids occasionally complain, but generally will be satisfied with something else to drink.

It's all about smart shopping, and I will tell you right now that I NEVER shop WalMart (to not mislead you, I did shop a few times over 3 years ago, but not since) and am still able to feed my family for $250-350 each month. I'd share with you a menu, but right now between me being out of town, the birthday party and the stomach bug this hasn't been a typical month. If you look at my recipes though, you will find some of my low-cost recipes (except Yaki-Niku).

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm impressed! I've been trying to reduce our grocery budget for awhile. I read through some of The Tightwad Gazette on your recommendation. I'd love to see some of your recipes and meal plans!

Casii said...

I would guess we're on the super thrifty plan too then!

I do the Grocery Game and it helps a lot. We also grow some of our own produce in the summer and can it. I like to 'imagine' I'm doing the whole Victory Garden type of thing. Never heard that tip about salt in milk!

Anonymous said...

I'm just going to say that we all need to go back to the good ole days where we grow and raise our own food:) I think that we would all be a lot healthier too.......