With the inflation of food prices, are you wondering how to shop and make the most out of your dollar?

1. Shopping on a budget can be challenging. Here are 10 tricks of the trade to get you started.

2. Take some time to plan what you intend to cook for the week. Make a list and stick to it.

3. Get to know the prices of food you normally buy. You will be able to pinpoint sales easily.

4. Never shop when hungry. You will be tempted to buy more food than you need. Instead, shop on a full stomach and you may leave the store with a full wallet.

5. Try store brand products. Usually, these items differ little in quality, but will be more affordable in price.

6. Shop when the store is not crowded and when you are not in a hurry.

7. Choose beans over expensive meats. Beans are inexpensive, and loaded with fiber and protein.

8. If fresh fruits and vegetables are expensive, then buy those in season. Another affordable option is to buy frozen or canned fruits packed in water or in its own juice. Frozen or canned vegetables are very nutritious.

9. Use coupons for foods you buy on a regular basis.

10. Watch out for convenience or ready made food—frozen pizza, frozen dinners. They are more expensive than foods made at home. Also, ready made foods are higher in fat, salt, and calories. Therefore, you may get more for your money by buying ingredients and prepare foods at home.

11. Read the signs on the store shelves carefully. Those items may not be on sale.

Finally, if you “learn to compare prices, shop for sale items, and stop buying ‘empty-calorie’ foods and drinks, you can eat a healthy diet without destroying your budget”.