Buying in Bulk

It doesn't take a math wizard to know single-serve packages are pricey. But heeding the ins and outs of bulk buying is important if you want to net the most savings.
Big warehouse clubs, food co-ops, natural food stores, and even regular supermarkets sell bulk quantities of food. The key to figuring out whether or not the savings is significant depends on several factors. Here are four things to keep in mind:

1. Frequency of use It's no big deal to buy paper towels, paper plates, or toilet paper in bulk since these items last forever and will eventually be used. 2. Cost per ounce Sometimes shelf tags underneath a food item break down the cost per ounce for different-sized packages of an item so it's easy to compare cost. 3. The "sale" factor Supermarkets and discount merchants run weekly specials on fruit, meat, or even laundry detergent. 4. Membership dues Most warehouse clubs charge $40-$50 annual membership fees, so the savings disappear if you shop there infrequently.

More tips for the bulk-minded:
It doesn't take a math wizard to know single-serve packages are pricey. But heeding the ins and outs of bulk buying is important if you want to net the most savings.
Start your own bulk co-op with friends, family, or church groups. Buy 50 pound bags or rice, beans, flour, and oats and divvy them up between the group.
Steer clear of single serve packages since price tags can be double or triple the usual cost. Instead, buy yogurt, pudding or chips in bulk and repackage them yourself.
Buy steaks, hamburger, chicken, and pork chops in bulk packages and rewrap and freeze for future use.
Purchase large blocks of cheese and grate yourself with a food processor. Repackage inusable quantities and freeze.
Consider cooking in bulk; this way you can freeze leftovers for future meals. For example, if a big package of hamburger is on sale, cook triple the usual chili recipe and divide leftovers and freeze. See our Freezing Foods article for more ideas.

I am glad that we are doing this thing at church where we can save money by buying in bulk. Also it helps prepare for a disaster or emergency. If you are like me who buys in bulk, better try the ideas here I have found at AllRecipes.com. You can also find more money saving tips in their website.