The local Texas Agricultural Extension Service office can provide information on spending guides for thrifty food plans. Shop from a list based on planned menus. Check the food advertisements for good buys. Clipping and using coupons may save money. Go shopping as few times as possible.
Frequent trips can add to family food costs because it is easy to buy extra items each time.
Shop alone, if possible. Don't go shopping when you are hungry. Everything looks good when you are hungry, so it's hard to stick to your list. Shopping in a hurry may cause you to overlook the best buys. Use low-cost protein foods such as dry beans, eggs, peanut butter, turkey and chicken.