We all like to stretch our food dollar. Do you use these cost-savings strategies?

• Check out the peel-off coupons that may be present on the food packages. Be sure to hand them to grocery clerk at the register.
• Join the store's loyalty program. You might get coupons right at the store, on the cash register receipt or by email.
• Keep your coupons organized in a recipe box, binder or envelopes. Discard expired coupons regularly.
• Swap coupons with a friend. For example, if you have a new baby and need baby food or diaper coupons, let your friends know.
• Check out the savings in the newspaper. Check out the coupon inserts in many newspapers especially on weekends.
• Check the sale items. If you have coupons for those items, you can maximize your savings.
• Compare brands at the store. Usually the "name brand" and "store brand" are side by side.
• Don't forget to bring your grocery list and stick to it! 

What are your favorite money-savings strategies?

By Julie Garden-Robinson, Food and Nutrition Specialist, NDSU Extension Service

Featured in Food Wise November 2014 Newsletter (PDF)