Not, me I’m a terrible shopper of food. I am probably better than average but not a superior couponer or even serious saver.  But this article in the New York times was interesting.  It seemed to target people like me. 

So the store manager interviewed runs a high end store much like Whole Foods, except it’s called Heinman’s.  He says people are willing to pay more for better quality food.  But they are also interested in not driving around to 6 different stores “cherry picking” for the best deals.  But his tips for savings on groceries are.

How much are you throwing out?  Stop wasting so much food.  Yes convience foods like premade stuffed peppers are expensive, but the store manager suggests that buying the ingrediants needed to make the dish then throwing out the extras because you don’t use them costs more. The idea is not creating waste in the preparation.  Good point, and unfortunately I know many people who cook one meal a week, so buying to cook from scratch they end up throwing away a lot of excess. 

In our household, I try to make meals that are similar.  This way we are able to use up everything we buy.  It can make for some boring meals because there is only 2-3 people to feed versus a family.  But I think if I had a family it would be easier to run through all the bulk food.

A second tip, is that Heinman’s started to look for quality foods at a cheaper price.  Much like Trader Joe’s, they are trying to develop new following for unknown quality foods. 

A third tip is trying to stock local produce.  Sometimes this can save money because the produce doesn’t have to travel as far. I’ve found it’s usually organic so it costs more than buying regular produce but if you were going to buy organic anyway it’s cheaper.

Finally the article asks the question if you run around chasing deals and using coupons are you sure you’re saving?  Is it taking a lot of time and energy to run around?  And while there are deals to be had, are you sure that you aren’t being gouged on other items?

Very interesting article.  I am never going to be a shopping guru, but I’m not about to start shopping at Whole Food either.  I can’t afford it, and I know it’s way more expensive than me going to my local grocer.  But the article does end by saying don’t beat yourself up for not getting the “best” deals.

So do your best, and realize where you can and cannot save money.  Save by going to the store once a week and only to one.  Save by using coupons on any items you can.  Save money by not wasting food.  Save money by planning meals.  Save money by stockpiling deals you know are worth it.  These are easy tips to at least help curb your grocery bills.