CHARLOTTE, N.C. — American consumer prices rose by 7% in December, marking the highest inflation rate since 1982, and one place we're all feeling the pinch is at the grocery store.
Rising prices have wiped out the healthy pay increases that many Americans have been receiving, making it harder for households, especially lower-income families, to afford basic expenses. Polls show that inflation has started displacing even the coronavirus as a public concern, making clear the political threat it poses to President Joe Biden and congressional Democrats.
If you're overwhelmed by the thought of couponing or downloading a bunch of apps that promise to save you money, it doesn't have to be that difficult. WCNC Charlotte has compiled four simple strategies to help you spend less at the supermarket.
1. Buy basics in bulk when you can
Buying in larger quantities can lower overall costs over time. Focus on ingredients that you use in a variety of recipes like pasta, rice and eggs, as well as canned and frozen vegetables.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to the Defenders team by emailing money@wcnc.com.
2. Plan your meals ahead of time
Take that plan to the grocery store so you only buy what you need to make those meals. This should help to cut back on those impulse buys that tend to drive up the cost of each shopping trip.
3. Buy store brands
Generic brands tend to cost less and there generally isn’t a significant difference in taste from the name brand especially with food staples like butter and milk.
4. Consider cutting meat out of your menu
Meat and dairy are expensive so cutting them from your diet, even just once a week, can help you save money. If you can’t imagine not eating meat at every meal, try using it as a flavor and not the main ingredient. Consider maybe a sprinkle of bacon on top of potato soup!
Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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