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3.0 SPECIFIC SUPERMARKET AND GROCERY SHOPPING TIPS

MEAT AND SEAFOOD

== Prepackaged cold cuts often cost more than buying by the pound from the deli. If you get them to slice it thin, you'll end up eating less meat.

== When debating whether to buy boneless or bone-in, compare the price per meal not the price per pound. Bone-in has more waste, takes more time, and often costs more.

== Don't buy canned meat except for camping or emergencies. It is expensive and not as good as fresh or frozen.

== Don't buy more meat than you need just because the package is made up. Get the butcher to cut what you need.

== The more cuts the butcher makes the more you will pay per pound (convenience). For example, meat cut into kabobs can cost 25% more.

== Buy "subprimal" cuts. These are 5-12 lb. slabs of meat. Learning to cut these yourself and freezing them can save you 50%.

== Name brand chicken is not worth the cost; buy the store brand. Whole chickens are not good buys unless you can use the gizzards and necks or you're making a stew or soup.

== Large turkeys (over 12 lbs) are a much better buy per pound. In season, in the fall, fresh is cheaper. Other times frozen is cheaper.

== Seafood pricing is very seasonal. Frozen is often better and costs less. "Fresh" is often several days old and cost up to $1 more per pound.

PRODUCE

== Fresh fruit and vegetables are usually cheaper in season. However, out of season frozen or canned costs less and may even taste better since they were packaged in season when fresh.

== Don't buy too much as produce will spoil and go to waste.

== Jumbo sized fruits cost extra per pound. Medium is a better buy.

== Most fruits need to be ripe when bought except: bananas, pears, and cantaloupe. DAIRY

DAIRY

== Store cheeses are usually a good deal.

== Dry milk may be cheaper and won't be noticed in recipes. Having it in your pantry may save a trip.

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