How I Manage Food Costs as a Feedist
Preface: I often see people in this community post about struggling with food insecurity and managing food costs. These are just some tips that have helped me when I was down to the last few dollars and needed to eat for a few weeks. I understand circumstances are different for everyone, and some people struggle even with this level of food security, I have been there. My intention is to help.
With food prices still high—often due to profit gouging—I’ve found ways to manage my food budget, and the secret is simple: **eat at home!** Growing up in extreme poverty with two working parents, eating at home was pretty much our only option, aside from takeout once every few months. My parents taught me the value of home cooking, and while it takes time to develop essential skills, Making sauces, learning how to prep and clean ingredients, cooking veggies, preparing meats, etc., once you have them, there’s a whole world of recipes within reach.
Here’s how I manage food costs, and how you can too:
1. Weekly/Monthly Shopping Essentials
Start with the basics—items you’ll need to shop for regularly to cover your meals for a week or two. Building a pantry depends on the storage space you have, but here are some key ingredients to keep on hand:
- Milk (1 to 2 gallons, depending on your choice—I go with 1%)
- Bread (1 loaf) (I also recommend tortillas as they last longer than bread and can be used for nearly any bread needs)
- Rolls or Croissants (If you shop at a bulk store, you can get a dozen for $6.)
- Fruits: Change with the season, but apples, oranges, and grapes are solid year-round choices. In the summer, throw in some berries and stone fruit.
- Veggies for Prep: Stick to simple, versatile veggies like green bell peppers, zucchini, onions, potatoes, and chilies.
- Butter: Unsalted sweet cream butter is my favorite! Go for sticks instead of tubs for a better per-unit cost.
- Leafy Greens: A bag of spinach or romaine hearts
- Cheese: Shredded cheese works best and if you want to save more, buy a block and slice or shred it yourself.
These staples give you a variety of flavors, textures, and nutrition to build meals around, whether you’re whipping up sides, salads, or more complex dishes.
2. Protein, Protein, Protein!
Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet, but you don’t need to overdo it or overspend. I’ve found that chicken and tofu are some of the most affordable and versatile protein sources available (unless you’re hunting your own!). Both freeze well and can be used in a variety of recipes with different seasonings and marinades.
You can also look at beef, but stick to lean beef and fish as you do not want to pay for fat that will not end up in your food.
3. Shelf-Stable Items to Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk can be a game changer, especially if you stock up on shelf-stable items. If you’re short on storage space, invest in an airtight tote to keep things organized. Start with common essentials like:
- Flour (Good ole AP with cover you most of the time)
- Cooking Oil (I go for olive oil and canola oil)
These staples are the foundation of countless recipes and, when stored properly, can last for months or even a year.
4. Season Early, Season Often
Spices are what make food magical! You don’t need fancy brands—stick with basics that offer single-ingredient profiles. My go-to spices are:
These spices will give you all the flavor you need to create a variety of meals without breaking the bank.
5. Canned Goods: The Unsung Hero
Canned goods are a staple in my kitchen. They offer consistent quality, low prices, and a long shelf life. Plus, they’re great for backup when fresh ingredients are low. Some key canned items to keep on hand are:
These ingredients can help you create filling and versatile meals on a budget.
6. Where You Shop Matters
The store you shop at can make a huge difference in food prices. Here’s how to stretch your budget even further:
Bulk Stores: Invest in a membership at places like Sam’s Club, Costco, or BJ’s. The $100 yearly fee is usually paid for in savings after just a few trips. Protein, especially beef and fish, is almost always cheaper in bulk stores.
Walmart and Aldi: These stores are great for extras like frozen veggies, fresh produce, dairy items, and baked goods. Their prices are hard to beat!
Hope this helps and feel free to reblog or comment with your own tips and tricks!
Stick to Your List: One of the easiest ways to overspend and waste food is by shopping without a plan. Make a list, and stick to it. This will help keep your budget in check and prevent unnecessary purchases.
By following these steps, you can keep your food costs down while still eating healthy and delicious meals. The key is planning ahead, shopping smart, and keeping a well-stocked pantry!
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