Food prices are going up again - how can you keep costs down?

You probably won’t be surprised to hear this news - but food prices are going up.

According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), food prices in July are 4% higher than they were this time last year.

That’s up from 3.7% in June and above the three-month average of 3.5%.

So as food prices keep heading upwards, what can you do if you’re already struggling to make ends meet?

1. Buy supermarket own-brands

Many supermarkets offer value or ‘essentials’ ranges that are much cheaper than branded goods.

They’re often made in the same factories as big-name brands, so you won’t find any difference in taste, quality and nutrition.

2. Check out the reduced section

Supermarkets often reduce products nearing their sell-by date, especially in the evenings. 

Shop when yellow sticker discounts are available to bag discounts of up to 75%. 

Also, check out the reduced section for yellow-sticker bargains, especially in the evenings.

3. Base meals around store cupboard staples

Cheap, non-perishable ingredients like pasta, rice tinned tomatoes can go a long way without breaking the bank, and can form the basis of countless meals, from curry to spaghetti bolognese.

4. Plan your meals in advance

Decide what meals you’re going to have before you go shopping, so you can write a list of all the ingredients you need to buy.

If you have a list and you stick to it, you’re less likely to be tempted by unnecessary extras or buy expensive last-minute takeaways.

It’ll also probably help you avoid throwing out food you don’t end up eating.

5. Swap instead of sacrifice

If the cost of one ingredient has gone up, think about possible cheaper alternatives.

For example, if butter’s gone up, could margarine or oil work for what you need? 

6. Shop at discount stores

Retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and other budget chains often beat rivals like Tesco and Sainsbury’s when it comes to price.

So if you haven’t been for a while, it might be a good time to see what bargains they offer.

7. Cook in batches

If you batch-cook meals and freeze leftovers in single portions, you’ll always have a meal ready to defrost on those days that you don’t fancy cooking.

It’s quicker, cheaper and healthier than relying on expensive ready meals or takeaways.

8. Use food waste apps

Apps like Too Good To Go and Olio connect you with local cafés, restaurants and neighbours offering food that would otherwise go to waste. 

You can pick up a 'magic bag' of surplus food for a fraction of the usual price – or even get items for free.

9. Use supermarket loyalty schemes

Sign up for loyalty schemes at supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda, so you can take advantage of discounts, vouchers and other perks and incentives.

If you shop there regularly, the savings can soon add up.

But don’t left yourself be tempted into buying something you don’t need.

A special offer is only worthwhile if you were actually planning to buy that item anyway.

10. Buy wonky and frozen veg

Does it really matter what shape a carrot or pepper is if you’re going to chop it up anyway?

That’s why many supermarkets now sell wonky veg - it’s just as good and a bit lighter on the wallet.

It’s also worth keeping some frozen veg in the freezer.

Again, it’s often cheaper that fresh veg and you don’t have to throw it away when it goes bad.