Many American families have to stretch their budgets more than ever. In March 2011, the national jobless rate was 8.8 percent, according to the United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. Even families with an employed adult face rising prices and may struggle to pay for groceries each week. With planning, you can create an economic weekly meal plan to feed your family.
Planning
Before you shop, plan your meals for the week. Think about ingredients that you can use in multiple recipes. If your store offers weekly circulars detailing sale prices, base your meal plan on sale items. Purchase ground beef or ground turkey in bulk and brown enough to last for several meals, You can use seasoned meat in tacos, burritos, chili and to top baked potatoes. Buy vegetables that work well in a variety of recipes, such as bell peppers and spinach. Frozen vegetables are often more economical than fresh, and they last longer.
Farmers' Markets
Budget advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends shopping at farmers' markets for in-season produce. Look for vegetables to bulk up stews, soups and chili, such as potatoes, squash and tomatoes. If you have a Community Supported Agriculture program in your community, ask if it accepts volunteer hours in lieu of money for produce shares. Many of these programs need people to weed or sort produce and will strike a bargain for free or reduced prices for fruits and vegetables.
Buy in Bulk
Some foods are more affordable if you buy them in bulk or from bulk bins. Beans, rice and grains are also shelf-stable and will store well for weeks or months, allowing you to keep a stocked pantry. Canned fruits and vegetables are often less expensive than their fresh counterparts, but keep in mind they can be high in sodium.
Ideas
Transform leftovers throughout the week. Leftover meatballs from one dinner can be broken down and layered into lasagna the next. Combine leftover chicken and vegetable stir-fry with rice and chicken broth for an Asian chicken soup. If planning and careful shopping are not enough to keep your shelves and your kids' stomachs full, seek help in the community. Food pantries, food stamps and the Women, Infants and Children federal program exist to prevent children and families from going hungry.
References
- US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics; Regional and State Employment and Unemployment Summary; April 19, 2011
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Fruits and Veggies Matter; 30 Ways in 30 Days to Stretch Your Fruit and Vegetable Budget
- United States Department of Agriculture; Family Food Shopping: Spend Less, Get More
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