We have all noticed how the prices of certain foods and products suddenly rise, then the inflation is talked about in the media and on social networks, but the most shocking moment is when we go to markets, street vendors, or supermarkets. Upon seeing the prices, it is inevitable to ask ourselves if we really want to buy this or that product, opt for cheaper options, or simply feel overwhelmed by the fact that money no longer goes as far as it used to. 

So, although the prices of the basic basket, those considered essential, and other products and foods continue to rise, you should not panic, as there are always alternatives, tips for saving, and ways to substitute certain products. On this occasion, at kiwilimón, we explain what the basic basket is, which products are the most expensive, and how to substitute them; these tips will help you cope with rising prices! 

You can also read: Inflation: Tips to save when shopping

What is the basic basket? 

The Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development explains that the basic basket is a group of products that a family needs to satisfy its needs, but when it comes to the food basic basket, it refers to "a group of products that must provide the minimum for the essential nutrition of an adult individual." 

A basic basket can vary depending on the region; however, we will consider the one mentioned by Profeco, which consists of 24 foods: 

• Edible vegetable oil 
• Grain rice 
• Flaked tuna 
• Standard sugar 
• Beef 
• White onion 
• Jalapeño pepper 
• Pork 
• Black beans 
• Chicken egg 
• Toilet soap 
• Tomato salad 
• Cow's milk 
• Lemon 
• Apple 
• Banana 
• White sandwich bread 
• White potato 
• Toilet paper 
• Soup pasta 
• Chicken 
• Canned sardines in tomato 
• Corn tortilla 
• Carrot 

Meanwhile, the Secretariat of Agriculture has a basic basket of 40 products: 

• Corn 
• Beans 
• Rice 
• Sugar 
• Enriched corn flour 
• Edible vegetable oil 
• Tuna 
• Sardine 
• Liquid, powdered milk, and milk derivatives 
• Canned chiles 
• Instant coffee 
• Table salt 
• Oats 
• Soup pasta 
• Wheat flour 
• Chocolate 
• Maria cookies, animal cookies, and salty cookies 
• Lentils 
• Laundry soap 
• Toilet soap 
• Toilet paper 
• Powdered detergent 
• Toothpaste 
• Beef 
• Pork 
• Chicken 
• Toasted tortillas 
• Box and sweet bread 
• Fresh eggs 
• Dried fish 
• Purified water 
• Amaranth, peanut, etc. candy 
• Canned tomato puree 
• Dried fruits 
• Natural hibiscus and tamarind 
• Unsweetened concentrates for making drinks 
• Gelatin 
• Chickpeas, peas, and soy 
• Basic fruits and vegetables 
• Batteries 

After registering an increase in prices, the basic basket costs around $930.90 to $1,106.70 per week, so we can say that Mexican families are spending a minimum of $4,000 a month, just on basic foods. 

You can also read: 15 economical recipes to turn inflation around

Which are the most expensive foods in the basic basket? 

If we focus on the foods in the basic basket, these are the most expensive, according to the figures from the General Directorate of Supply, Trade, and Distribution of Mexico City: 

*Beef steak: its price ranges from $148.00 to $206.50 
*Ground beef: its price ranges from $88.00 to $200.00 
*Hass avocado: its price ranges from $60.00 to $100.00 
*Golden apple: its price ranges from $35.00 to $52.00 
*Onion: its price ranges from $18.00 to $45.60 
*White egg: its price ranges from $40.00 to $43.60 
*Potato: its price ranges from $20.00 to $49.90 
*Seedless lemon: its price ranges from $18.00 to $49.90 
*Oil: its price ranges from $37.90 to $58.00 
*Poblano pepper: its price ranges from $22.00 to $60.00 

How to substitute the most expensive foods in the basic basket? 

The easiest way to substitute the most expensive foods in the basic basket is to choose equally nutritious options but more economical ones, as well as to compare prices, check your pantry and refrigerator before leaving home, and take advantage of offers: 

1. Red meat 
If you want to maintain a good intake of protein but without spending a small fortune on beef, Harvard University recommends increasing the intake of beans and legumes, whole grains, chicken, dairy, and nuts and seeds. So, instead of preparing a barbecue, you can opt for a salad with chickpeas, cheese chunks, and a bit of seeds or nuts for a complete meal. 

2. Avocado 
Replacing avocado is not that difficult if you are willing to get creative. For example, if you want to make a very spicy sauce but without spending much, then you have to make our recipe for taquería green sauce, which is made with zucchini and not with avocado. The best part is that it has an incredible flavor, is economical, and very easy to prepare. 

On the other hand, if you use avocados to make smoothies, the banana is a good substitute, as the texture is similar and it is also full of vitamins and minerals. If you consume avocado for its health benefits, chia seeds are an excellent option for you, as they contain omega-3, fiber, and protein. 

3. Lemon
If you like to dress your salads with a bit of lemon juice but are scared by the price of this, get creative! If you have some vinegar at home, mix it with salt, pepper, spices, and herbs to create a dressing that will add an extra touch of flavor to your meals. 

4. Fruits and vegetables 
If your favorite fruits and vegetables are reaching exorbitant prices, look for canned or frozen options, which are usually much cheaper. 

5. Oil 
Now that vegetable oil is rising in price, this is a good excuse to cook more steamed foods and thus get your palate used to consuming less fat.

You can also read: Tips for creating an economical menu for the whole week