5. Make a menu for the week.
A menu for the week serves a similar purpose to a list. Pick meals for the week that all incorporate similar ingredients so that you don't have to buy a lot of different items.

6. Stretch your menu.
Plan your meals in a way that will allow for leftovers to be used for various meals throughout the week. There are 21 meals in a week, and by stretching menus with leftovers, you can reduce the number of meals you have to start from scratch.

7. Don't waste food.
If you buy it, eat it. Be creative. Similar to the "stretch your menu" step above, don't waste money on prepared foods. Instead, prepare meals ahead of time and freeze them, or double a recipe when cooking and freeze the second half for a hectic day coming up.

One recent study said the average family throws away 14 percent of the food it buys. On a $150 weekly bill, that is more than $1,000 back into your pocket every year.

When meal planning falls short and the meat in the fridge will go bad before you have time to eat it, freeze it as soon as possible to enjoy later. Make sure the meat or other food product is packaged properly; it's generally safer, and will make the end product better, if the product is placed in an airtight bag or other packaging.

8. Grocery shop backward.
The cheapest items in the grocery store (produce) are the first items that you see. Start from the other end and work your way back. You'll be purchasing the most expensive items first and will know how much you have remaining for the fruits and vegetables.

Also, make sure your veggies and fruit are dry before you put them on the scale. If they have just been sprayed with water, they will weigh more and cost more.

9. Make use of ads and coupons.
Watch for store newspaper ads and coupons. Take advantage of coupons and sale items, but be sure your family will use a "bargain." If they won't, it's no saving.

10. Shop alone.
Shop by yourself, if it's at all possible. It you go without your kids or spouse or friends, you won't be led astray by anything they want to buy. If the children have to come along, provide a book or handheld video game to occupy them.

11. Compare brands.
Look at the cost and the quantity. Usually the store's own brand is cheaper, but not always.