The cost of food is rising around the globe and people trying to put food on the table for their families are feeling the squeeze. In the UK, the average food bill has risen by £454 a year.1 In the US, estimates suggest prices rose 10.4% between June 2021 and June 2022,2 while in Canada food prices went up 9.7%, possibly adding an additional $16 to the cost of the items in your grocery cart each trip.3
With inflation reaching levels not seen since the 1980s, tough choices are being made as people struggle to find clever ways to stretch their pounds. Unfortunately, food is often the first thing people will cut back on.
Stretching your budget
There are lots of great tips on how to eat well on a budget – even during the Christmas period. But sometimes what we need is to have someone to show us how and what to cook so we know what’s possible on a very tight budget.
YouTube is an incredible resource when you’re hunting for budget-cooking tips. There’s no shortage of thrifty home cooks who are eager to show you homecooked recipes they’ve perfected using the most inexpensive items available at grocery and pound shops.
While sometimes they are basic meals, it’s still hearty, hot and nutritious food that your family can enjoy when times are tough and budgets are tighter than normal.
Obviously, food prices vary depending upon where you live so you may not be able to make these meals for exactly the same cost, but the videos still provide inspiration and information that can help you make the most of your grocery budget. Foresters members can also save money on everyday necessities, electronics and other products and services by taking advantage of MemberDeals.
If you’re someone who doesn’t have to struggle to put food on the table, there are ways you can help those who do. Donate to your local food bank and other organisations that lead the fight against hunger, volunteer with organisations that bring meals to seniors and contact your lawmakers to encourage them to pass policies that prioritise access to healthy foods.
If you’re a Foresters Financial member, a Community Volunteer grant of up to £2,000 allows you to support a not-for-profit organisation or registered charity that’s doing good things for the people around you – and that could include organising a food drop for your local food bank or soup kitchen.
Remember, if you’re struggling to eat there’s no shame in reaching out to resources that are there to help. Find out what government benefits might be available to you and remember that food banks can help you bridge the gap when necessary.
SOURCES
1 https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/jul/19/average-uk-food-bill-rises-grocery-inflation-prices-cost-of-living
2 https://www.forbes.com/advisor/personal-finance/why-are-food-prices-still-rising/
3 https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/food-prices-inflation-groceries-1.6499640
