Start to create a plan every week with input from the family so they agree to healthier items
*Check sales ads for deals on fruits, veggies & protein (e.g. meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts)
Fresh, frozen & canned count (beware of sodium and/or added sugar in sauces on frozen items)
*Take stock of food items on-hand in the fridge, freezer, and pantry
*Find recipes using the same ingredients in different ways to vary your meals
Examples:
- Chicken fajita with peppers/onions, rice, shredded lettuce/tomato
- BBQ Grilled chicken with skewered veggies and mixed greens salad with fruit pieces
- Chicken cacciatore with brown rice and side salad
(all require chicken, onion, pepper, tomato, and lettuce but have different flavor combinations)
Check for recipes:
- on the store website under the Recipe tab or through the Eat Right for Life tab
- at www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org
*Develop a 7-day menu including meals & snacks
Include any meals or snacks you intend to eat out to avoid excess purchases and food waste
*Create grocery list with all items needed for the menu
Shop from the list with help from the kids and avoid impulse purchases not on the list
When you return home from the store, chop/prep items wherever possible
This saves time during the week!
Buy larger bags for cost savings but immediately pack up single-servings and throw away big containers and bags
Then limit to just one single serve bag at a sitting!
