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We all know food prices are not what they used to be, but some items in your grocery cart have jumped more than others.The latest Consumer Price Index reveals food prices have risen 2.9% from July 2024, with some items seeing double-digit percentage increases. The cost of ground beef has risen by 11.5%, while steak prices are up 12.4%. Coffee drinkers are also feeling the pinch, with overall coffee prices increasing by 14.5%. Egg prices have seen the steepest hike, soaring 16.4% since July 2024.Not all grocery items are more expensive. Tomatoes are down 5.2%, the overall cost of fats and oils like butter and peanut butter has dropped 2.3%, and frozen vegetables are 2.2% cheaper. Ways to save on groceries Plan meals around sales and stick to a list Instead of deciding what you want to eat and then buying ingredients, flip the script: check the weekly ad first and build meals around what is on sale. Then, write a shopping list that covers only those meals, plus household staples and do not deviate. This reduces impulse buys and ensures you are buying with purpose, not just stocking random ingredients.Buy store brands over name brands Stores have the ability to discount their own brands further. Swapping things like cereal, pasta, canned goods and cleaning supplies for the store version can slash your bill with no noticeable difference. If you are unsure, start with one or two swaps per week and compare.Limit prepackaged foods Convenience foods may feel like time-savers, but they quietly drive up your grocery bill. Precut veggies and shredded cheese are priced higher to cover extra labor and packaging. Choosing the whole version and taking just a few minutes to prep at home delivers the same result for far less money. Try to use everything you buy The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates the average family of four loses $1,500 annually due to wasted food. Make it a habit to freeze extras, repurpose leftovers into new meals and store produce properly so it lasts longer. Using up every ingredient you buy is one of the simplest ways to stretch your grocery budget.