The cost of basics like milk, eggs, and butter has risen rapidly in the past year. Unfortunately, prices are expected to rise even higher next year.
That’s why its more important than ever to save on such staples. Here are a few quick ways to save on milk.
Stock up when milk is cheap. The best way to save on milk is to stock up when the price is low. Watch for sales at your local supermarket and buy several gallons of milk when you see it on sale.
In addition, places other than grocery stores frequently offer milk as a loss leader (an extremely low priced product designed to lure you into the store). Stores like Walmart, Target, and Walgreens often feature great sales on milk. The trick is to buy the milk without buying a cart full of unintended purchases.
Make sure to check the expiration dates. The milk with the best expiration date is often located near the back of the refrigerated display case.
Freeze what you don’t need. If you buy more milk than you’ll use over a few weeks time, consider freezing some. Milk actually freezes well and will last frozen between 1-3 months. Skim milk and 1% milk will freeze better, but whole milk can be frozen as well.
Just remember to remove about 10% of the milk to allow for the expansion that occurs when milk freezes. When you need a new jug of milk, just place a frozen one in the refrigerator where it can thaw. You’ll generally want to do this a day or two before you actually need it.
Some components of the milk may have separated, so you’ll need to vigorously shake the milk once its thawed to return it to its normal consistency.
Consider powdered milk for baking. Powered milk is much cheaper than conventional milk. You can easily save money by substituting powdered milk in your recipes. A four pound box can create 5 gallons of milk at about one third to one half the cost of regular milk. It can also be kept in an air-tight container for several months at a time.
With grocery prices rising rapidly, these simple tips can help you get the most out of your shopping dollar.
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