Friday 19 / April / 2024
There’s absolutely nothing wrong in having an appetite and taking recourse to good food for happiness. What’s even better? Not overshooting your budget when you do so. Here are 7 tips to cut down on unnecessary food expenses so you can splurge on the good stuff. Hey, what’s a programme without a reward, right?
1. Plan your meals
That way you’ll know exactly what you need from the grocery section and won’t end up buying items that are eventually going to get stale in the fridge.
2. Keep a shopping list
Remember, impulsive shopping always leads to excess shopping. Keep a notepad and pen in the kitchen or at any other easily accessible place so you can jot down items you need to buy when you find them running low. Stick to that list when you go shopping. All the items in the shop are stacked, packaged and designed to lure you to buy them. Don’t fall prey to such temptations.
3. Buy in bulk when you can
Buying in bulk means you pay a lesser price than otherwise. Dedicate a particular day of the week or month to go shopping instead of popping into stores every other day for individual items. Make sure the items you stack for a month aren’t those that are easily perishable. Honestly, we didn’t need to tell you that.
4. Reward programmes
Look out for shopping centres that offer some form of reward scheme and sign up for their loyalty card (it literally takes less than a minute). Usually, these cards let you collect points that you can redeem later for a certain amount. Just don’t leave your card at home though when you go shopping.
5. Potlucks
Saving money doesn’t mean you can’t be social. If you have friends over frequently, you don’t always have to play host. Call for potluck dinners. That way everyone gets to show off their culinary skills, has more variety to choose from, and can eat what they prefer.
6. Eat at home
Your body and your wallet will thank you for it. If you simply must go out for a ‘coffee’ or a full-fledged lunch, try and eat something light so you aren’t tempted to binge eat something unhealthy or unnecessary at the venue.
7. Store your food right
Storing your food right ensures they stay fresh longer. Potatoes if stored in cool, dark places in a mesh bag can last way longer than if left on the kitchen counter. Leafy vegetables and chopped fruits can be stacked in the freezer if there are any signs of wilting or rotting. If you’ve ended up buying extra, toss all the fruits and vegetables in a mixer and make a refreshing juice that can even be refrigerated.
Antara Bose is a model turned fashion and beauty consultant. A popular blogger, anchor, and voice over artist, she maintains a deep connection with the local fashion, wellness and health industry. For fashion updates follow Antara on instagram @antarabose and on Facebook: Antara Bose.
