Someone posed this question awhile ago in one of the comments, and it's been on my mind. I've been trying to be a lot more conscious about the food I buy -- avoiding packaged foods and searching out organic and local foods. Until about six months ago I always shopped at Fred Meyer, a Kroger-owned chain here in Portland. But I became less enthralled with the paltry selection of natural meats and local produce. So I switched to New Seasons, a locally-owned chain that works with regional farmers to bring fresh foods to market, as well as offering the full-service grocery experience. I assumed that my grocery bill would skyrocket since you tend to pay a premium for quality, organic foods. But my bill has stayed consistently around $175 per week. (I think the FDA states that a typical family of four can eat nutritionally for $150 per week, but I also think the government just needs to butt out of my pantry...sorry, I digress.) Does $175 a week seem high?
My only conclusion for why I'm spending the same amount is that I'm far more careful about the food I buy at New Seasons than I was at Fred Meyer. I frequently shop online at New Seasons, which makes it really easy to avoid 'impulse' buys, plus I can walk to the kitchen to make sure I don't buy stuff I already have. (It may seem like a conflict of interest to speak glowingly about one of our site sponsors, but I really, really love their service and selection.) I do buy a few extras, like two bottles of wine each week, good coffee beans, yummy cheeses and Greek olives (an addiction). But my cart primarily contains produce, meat, dairy items, breads and spreads and bulk foods.
What are you spending on groceries? Are you buying a lot of organic food, and do you feel like you are spending a whole lot more? Have any good tips for slimming down the grocery bill? (Aside from giving up my glass-of-wine-with-dinner habit?)
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