San Diego, CA -
1) Minimize number of trips to the store.
2) Always use a list designed on store layout to save time
and money.
3) Shop alone and avoid going to the store just before a
meal.
4) Always check store ads and flyers for on sale money
saving specials.
5) Take advantage of the always plentiful coupons and
rebates.
6) Shop stores that double or triple coupons for greater
savings.
7) Cold cuts of meats usually cost less per pound at the
deli-counter.
8) Save money on cheese: purchase in blocks, slice and
shred at home.
9) Purchase fresh, unpeeled, unwashed, unpackaged
vegetables.
10) Purchase fruits and vegetables by the bag for best
value.
11) Purchase milk by the gallon, versus quarts, for best
value.
12) Bulk buy whenever practical and save on cost per ounce
or pound.
13) Avoid using expensive cuts of meats in stews or
casseroles.
14) Compare prices on fresh/frozen turkeys for more edible
meat per
pound.
15) Pre-packaged foods cost 10 to 20 times more.
16) Purchase generic or store brands when practical and
money saving.
17) Purchase fresh seafood in season to avoid higher
prices.
18) Avoid the more expensive single servings and so-called
snack-packs
19) Purchase fruits and vegetables in season to avoid
higher prices.
20) Items placed at eye level on shelves are often more
expensive.
Editor's note: The MONEY HELPS packet is $1 for consumers
who send the ICFE a 60 cent stamped self-addressed #10
envelope. MONEY HELPS includes: "Spender's Profile"; "15
steps to improve spending" "How to spend smarter for
household and grocery items"; "How to set up and implement
a spending-plan"; "Dealing with creditors"; "Steps to take
to reduce indebtedness." Send to: ICFE Money Helps, PO Box
34070, San
Diego, CA 92163-4070. The same information is available
at: www.icfe.info.