How to save money on food.

Write a shopping list
During the week, add to this list whenever you think of things you need. Remember to take it with you when you go shopping so you don't forget anything. Only buy what's on the list - this will make it easier to stick to your budget

Plan your meals
Plan your meals in advance and add the ingredients to your shopping list. Create a menu based around items you already have in the pantry so you are using the food you've already got and buy fewer items. You can download a free weekly meal planner from Sustainability Victoria's Love Food Hate Waste website.

Don't shop hungry
Eat a meal or snack before you go to the supermarket. When you are not hungry, you tend to buy less food.

Set a budget and use cash only
Set a budget for your shopping trip, withdraw the cash from an ATM and only take this money with you when you go shopping. Don't take any other cash or cards with you so you can only spend what you have. This old school way of budgeting worked well for previous generations before they had access to credit cards.

Utilise your leftovers
Cook a large batch of meals early in the week and freeze them to use as quick and easy leftovers. This can help avoid the last minute temptation of takeaways later in the week.

Add your leftovers to your meal plan so you don't forget they are there. If they go off before you eat them then buying and cooking in bulk becomes much less cost effective.

Buy generic
Swap brand names for generic products where you can. You probably won't taste the difference, but the cost savings can really add up.

Check the specials
Before you reach for the brand you always buy, check if you can replace it with a cheaper alternative.

Check expiry dates
Check the 'use by' and 'best before' dates on food so you don't waste money buying things you won't use before you have to throw them out.

Try vegetarian meals
Meat can be expensive, so buy less of it and try making more meals without using it. Lentils and chick peas are healthy alternatives that bulk up meals when you want to cook a vegetarian meal.

Cut down on junk food
There's nothing wrong with an occasional treat, but putting chocolates, biscuits, chips and soft drinks into your shopping trolley each week will have an impact on your wallet as well as your waistline.

Check all supermarket shelves
Supermarkets carefully plan where they place products around the store. The items they promote are usually at eye-level, so take the time to check the shelves above and below for any cheaper alternatives. This takes a little more work but it can make a big difference to your shopping bill.