Food is one of our main expenses, not only because we need to eat to live, but also because there is an endless array of delicious options that you can buy pre-made.

In Mexico alone, we spend around 37 percent of our income on food, which is quite considerable when compared to the recommended percentage for rent, which is 30 percent. This means you might be spending a little more on food than you do on rent.

Thus, looking for economical options without depriving yourself of nutritious food can be a great way to save your income and also start eating more consciously, with these simple tips.

1. Replace meats with plant proteins

Meat and fish tend to be the most expensive food items in our menus, so trying some vegetarian meals during the week will help keep your meal costs down. Moreover, there are many ways to replace animal protein with plant-based options, and you could even establish a "meatless day" each week.

2. Buy whole chicken

The cheapest way to buy chicken is to purchase a whole one. From a whole chicken, you will get 2 breasts, 2 thighs, legs, and wings, along with a carcass (bones) for making broth. You can make several dishes from it, such as a tinga with the breast, a stew with the thighs and legs, in addition to countless dishes that will require broth. Freeze what you won't eat, and your whole chicken will not only be economical but also very yielding.

3. Use frozen fruits and vegetables

Frozen fruits and vegetables are underrated because think about it, they come pre-cut and ready to use, they are just as good (just avoid those with added salt, sugar, or fats), and they are usually cheaper than fresh varieties. Frozen vegetables are harvested at peak freshness and then frozen to seal in their nutrients, so you won’t lose the best of them.

4. Don’t waste anything

Throwing away food is the worst thing you can do, so be strict and only buy what you will actually eat. For this, you need to start meal planning to use all the ingredients on your list. Freeze any food you don't use. Food storage bags and containers will be useful.

5. Don’t buy anything outside your grocery list

Make a weekly meal plan using the ingredients you already have and create a shopping list of the missing items.
Try not to shop when you are hungry. People who shop when they are hungry are more likely to spend more, especially on less healthy foods, such as fatty and sugary snacks.