ideas for keeping within my budget?

SnowL

I know you posted a couple of days ago but thought I'd still chip in.

What kind of vegetables do you buy/use? I know you get a box, but if it's mainly veg you could switch. I have saved a fortune by converting most of the veg I buy to canned - tastes just as good and so much cheaper. You really can't tell a difference, especially if it's things like carrots and peas in stews and casseroles etc. The mushrooms are good in curries, too. I also use tinned potatoes which you can get for as little as 15p at Morrisons, really nice with some butter and herbs on alongside a main meal. I'm going to be roasting them tomorrow to go with a nice honey and mustard glazed gammon. We just need to be open minded and willing to try a few new things.

Also you could try Approved Foods online - they're great for sauces/powders/household items on the cheap. There's usually loads of offers on too.

I usually make meal plans for a month, but then just do a food shop weekly to stock up on what I need. This avoids, as you say, things getting eaten. Especially when you've got an ever-hungry other half, and two step daughters (who always want snacks) staying for half of the week like I do.

Good luck and enjoy!!