Use low-cost protein foods such as dry beans, eggs, peanut butter, turkey and chicken. Hamburger and liver are good buys in red meats. Large roasts can be cut up and used in different ways for more than one meal. Stretch meats by using them in sauces or casseroles. Use reconstituted nonfat dry milk for cooking instead of whole milk.
Dry milk is equally nutritious and can be less expensive.
Take advantage of free or reduced-price school lunch programs. Where available, use fish and wild game. Hang clothes to dry instead of using a clothes dryer. Take shorter showers. Consider writing letters instead of making long-distance phone calls.