Combating the High Price of Food, Step One: Taking Stock

In preparation for the steps that lay ahead, it helps to take stock of your kitchen. This involves going through the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry - cleaning as you go if necessary - to see what kind of stockpile you have on hand.

Take note of meats and other things you can build meals around. What kind of vegetables and side dishes do you currently have?

And use this time to get rid of things you have that won't be eaten. Are there cereal boxes with crumbs at the bottom? Expired or freezer-burnt foods? How about things you bought that your family won't eat? Toss them or donate them. No need having them cluttering up the works and you'll create more storage space in the process.

This step is also valuable because it allows you to begin by eating what you have on hand. You may need to fill in around the edges with fresh produce or some extra ingredients, but for most families it will buy you a week or so before you need to begin restocking. This is time to get your food planning ducks in a row and give your budget a much-needed breather.

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