Extension Connection

Hone Your Consumer Savvy Skills
By Janet Hackert, Nutrition Specialist

During the last half of 2008, the FAO indicated a drop in the Food Price Index. Though world prices may reportedly be dropping, local food prices seem to be becoming more and more of a burden. What better time than now to hone one’s consumer savvy skills. Here are some tips from University of Missouri Extension guide sheet MP 905 called, “Squeezed by rising food prices?”

Before you go shopping, there are some things to consider. First, make a list. The more often you drive to the store the more gas you use. Perhaps even more importantly, a person spends $2.17 per minute in the store, according to the Food Marketing Institute. Plan ahead, write a list and stick to it. Spend less time in the store and reduce impulse buying.

Watch for sales but be careful that what you purchase is what you will eat. Stores that sell food in bulk are often less expensive, but if the larger quantity of food can’t be stored properly or eaten within a safe period of time, food is wasted and that is no bargain.

Convenience comes at a premium. Convenience foods, such as pre-packaged, prepared meals can be very costly, not to mention high in fat and sodium. By buying food and preparing it at home, savings can add up. Try making enough for two or more meals and freezing the extra in ready to heat and eat meal portions. Control the cost, portion size and fat and sodium. Snack foods can also be bought in bulk and made into individual portions to save money.

Watch for stores’ loss-leader items and take advantage of them. These are low-cost items that draw you into the store so you will buy higher priced items. Typically different parts of the store are featured each week. Stock up on the loss-leader bargains that are staples for you.

Other tips include: shop alone, shop on a full stomach, consider store brands, compare unit pricing for the best deal, look on high and low shelves (not in the middle) to notice where the best prices often are. For more tips, call the Show-Me Nutrition Line at 888-515-0016 toll-free

 (Written January 30, 2009)

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Extension Connection Barb Ubben, Web Manager harrisonco@missouri.edu Last revised: 05/25/04