Save On Groceries

I could really spend alot of time on this topic, as everyone has to eat. I travel up and down the rows in the local grocery store, and say to myself what the heck is going on. The prices for food are rediculous. I almost want to grab an employee and ask, is this price right. Then researching online find out it's only going to get worse. Did you know the average American spends $1170.00 p/month to feed a family of 4, and $700.00 p/month for just 2. Here are some tips to try to reduce grocery expenses.
     Plan your Meals: If you plan you meals in advance, and buy to the plan, you will save. A study was done that showed that more than half of all purchases made during "quick trips" to the grocery store were unplanned. Try to avoid impulse buying, over buying is the biggest cause to increase your overall spend.
     Organize Your Fridge & Pantry: Know what you have on hand. This pertains to those perishable items, as they will probably end up in the trash. Things like lettuce, and fruits will last longer if you place them in the "green bags" which you can find in any grocery store. Remember these bags cost more so re-use them.
     Batch and Freeze: OK so you come home from the grocery store and have all these bags to put away right. There was a really good deal on meats, so you bought more than enough. Take the meat you purchased and butcher, (clean off any fat, cut to serving sizes, etc.), package according to how much you will make for a meal, label and put in fridge. If you find a great deal on raw vegatables you can always blanch them, and place them in the freezer as well.
     Eat More Soup and Make Your Own Smoothies:  Soup is a great way to rid yourself of leftovers. If you have leftover meat/vegetables throw them in with some stock, and spices to get a warm satisfing meal. Leftovers should also be taken as lunch for the next day. Why pay for lunch. If you have any fruit that is on it's way out you could  do this. Take the fruit, and add some yogurt and milk, and toss in in the blender. Yum
     Clip Coupons: I know this is a pain in the neck, but with the price of groceries today you just have to do it. Look at the weekly circulars, or find online, to find some great grocerery deals. See what's on sale. Buy one get one free are usually pretty good. Get a membership card if you don't have one, most places do not charge you for this. You will get better deals on merchandise then without.
     Vegetables: Veggies are one of those things that go bad fast, and are costly. I would suggest to buy them at your local farmers market to save. The price of vegetables is going to go through the roof in the months to come. I realize not everyone has a green thumb, but I suggest this. GROW YOUR OWN.
If space is an issue use 5 gallon pails. Have you seen the price of a tomato

Please feel free to add your comments or any suggestion you may have