Amanda Peterson
August 4, 2023
• 3 Minute Read
CreditSoup's bit of frugality this week just happens to be a HUGE money saver. The cost of meat, in general, is on the rise. Meat can be one of the most expensive items on your grocery list. By skipping meat for a day, you can significantly reduce your overall grocery expenses. Consider preparing a meatless meal one day out of the week.
If you're catholic, or any other religion that partakes in Lenten Season, this shouldn't be a hard task. After all, they practice fish on Friday's during lent, or go meatless that day. In the grand scheme of things, you're actually saving money by not eating meat at least one day of the week.
Average Cost Of Meat
The average American spends $961 on meat in a year, according to an article from the Beef Magazine. Break that down by the week and it averages out to $18.48 per week on meals with a meat main course.
As of July 2023, here are the current prices of various cuts of meat per pound:
- Chicken $1.95
- Hamburger $5.46
- Pork Chops $4.68
- Pork Loin $3.53
- Steak $10.73
- Turkey $2.28
- Ham $4.70
- Roast $7.19
Meat prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, availability, season, and market conditions. It's also a good habit to check the local sales before shopping. Depending on the time of year, certain things may also be on sale. Therefore, it's best to check with local grocery stores, butchers, or online sources for the most current prices.
10 Tips to Save Money On Meals
Going meatless can indeed be a cost-effective way to manage your food expenses, as plant-based foods often tend to be more affordable than meat and animal products. Here are some tips on how to go meatless to save money:
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Buy in bulk: Purchase staples like rice, beans, lentils, and oats in bulk. Buying in larger quantities usually comes with cost savings.
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Cook at home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes, which can save money compared to dining out.
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Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan and make a shopping list accordingly. This will help you avoid impulsive purchases and reduce food waste.
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Embrace beans and legumes: Beans, lentils, and other legumes are excellent sources of protein and are generally more affordable than meat. They can be used in various dishes like soups, stews, salads, and curries.
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Explore seasonal produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to be more affordable and fresher. Look for local produce or consider joining a farmers' market or a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program.
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Stock up on sales: When plant-based items you use regularly are on sale, consider buying extra and storing them for later use.
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Make your own plant-based alternatives: Instead of buying pre-packaged meat alternatives, such as veggie burgers, consider making your own at home. You can find many recipes online, and it can be more cost-effective.
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Freeze leftovers: If you cook large batches of meals, freeze the leftovers for future meals. This prevents food waste and provides convenient, ready-to-eat options on busy days.
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Limit processed foods: While there are many delicious plant-based processed foods available, they can be more expensive than whole, unprocessed foods. Focus on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to save money.
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Shop wisely: Compare prices at different stores, and consider shopping at discount grocery stores or buying from bulk food sections.
By incorporating these strategies into your meal planning and shopping habits, you can enjoy the benefits of a meatless diet while saving money in the process. Additionally, adopting a plant-based lifestyle can have various health and environmental benefits, making it a win-win situation for both your wallet and the planet.
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