Eat Fresh and Save Money

[R1986]

I recently started going to farmer's markets (last year-- it's not possible to do during Canadian winter so much) and found that not only was it a great way to get really fresh food but also saves a lot of money.

Do any of the rest of you visit markets instead of chain grocery stores to do your shopping? It definitely pays off and requires only a tiny extra bit of work on your part in the form of going to the market on certain days and knowing how to peruse food well enough to buy quality.

[katharina]

Although I'm in a "cold" area of the US, the farmers market runs year round. Problem is that I don't get there nearly as often as I'd like to. I truly enjoy going and seeing what I can find fresh, but to make it a valid money-saver, I'd have to go more often. I guess when I get there, I should buy things to freeze, too... but haven't done that yet.

[Daisy]

I agree! I have been trying to incorporate more "raw" foods into our diet. The fruits and veggies are great for snacks and I feel like it has helped our budget.

http://iwanttobehomewithmykids.blogspot.com/

[miranda]

Farmer's markets are a good way to save and also to eat healthy. Another thing to do is grow your own gardens and crops and learn to can your produce. Preparation and planting takes a weekend; then watering every afternoon or so. When the crops come in, harvesting and canning takes a few weekends. Then your set! All of the vegetables you need. Canning your own fruits and vegetables(and meats,if your a meat eater) will save money. You know that they are fresh and they last years on the shelf.The initial cost is a canner and the jars and lids, that can be reused over and over. I've taken the advise of my grandmother, who is 85 and went through the depression: She always paid herself first and never spent beyond her means. She has always had the things that she needed and at the age of 85 she is still living a comfortable life because of her saving over all of these years.She says " Pay yourself first and do not try to keep up with the Jones (their living a delusion anyway),never live beyond your means or you will be living a delusion too that can fall apart at any time. Also remember whats important; food, shelter and clothing and I don't mean the expensive stuff. Slow down, having love in your life and having the essentials to substain life is whats important." Good advise, huh?

[Marie]

Wow, I'm in Ohio and I have to say that fresh fruits & veggies are the second most expensive items I buy at the grocery (meats being #1). I've tried farmer's markets too, and though they are a fun way to spend the afternoon, I just don't find them to be much cheaper than the grocery around here.