Save Food Wastage and Save Money This Christmas

By Kevin Pederson

Saving money and food can truly be the best gift you give yourself this Christmas. With just a few changes in priorities, spending, and cooking patterns, you can make an amazing difference this year.

* Make a list of all that you want to buy and cook for Christmas this year.
* Divide the list into need and wants.
* Set aside a budget before you start spending.
* Eliminate articles from your wish list, so that you accommodate what you need in your budget.
* Reduce your shopping trips to just one or two this season. Do not go shopping every time you see a sale advertisement or every time a friend needs company.
* Stay away from all the advertisements announcing sales and discounts. Remember that in all these discounts, there is a catch that still enables the shopkeeper to benefit and you to lose.
* Go to the grocery store with a fixed list. Do not overindulge, however tempting the product or the offer.
* Have someone you can be accountable to.
* Keep a track of all your bills and expenses.
* Plan a menu. Then reduce the estimated quantities of food by a margin that is realistic.

We usually make or buy more food, or indulge in too much variety. Stick to a smaller variety in a larger quantity, or more variety in a smaller quantity. Large quantities of food usually get stocked up in the refrigerator for days after Christmas. These items usually go into the bin.

* In case there is leftover food, make a neat parcel and give it to someone in need, before it gets stale and is too late to be given to anyone.
* See where you can lower costs by substituting expensive ingredients with more economical ones in your cooking.
* Remember that seasonal food costs less than canned or stocked up food. Also remember that seasonal food is a fresh and healthier option.
* Christmas treats need not necessarily be an exotic spread of expensive food. Simple, home cooked delicacies will please the palate just as well, and also goes easy on your wallet!
* The key to sticking to your budget is planning and determination to stick to this plan.
* Include your children in this year’’s decision to save on food and expenses.

You will be surprised at how well they will take to the idea when it is explained to them in a manner that they can understand.

They will be proud of the contribution they make this season to your family’’s goal.

About The Author

Kevin Pederson, authors web content for http://www.diethealthclub.com a complete online resource featuring diet, health and fitness. This article focused on preventing food wastage this new year eve