CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If you're trying to save money by eating all of your meals at home, certain habits can sabotage your efforts without you even knowing it.
Here are three sneaky ways you’re wasting money on food, according to the personal finance website The Penny Hoarder.
1. Meal prep.
You’ve got the best intentions – to save money and eat better, more nutritious meals. The problem is, preparing meals ahead of time can only save you money (and help your health) if you actually eat what you prep.
The solution? The Penny Hoarder recommends only preparing a few days worth of meals at a time instead of an entire week all at once.
2. Buying in bulk.
With food prices skyrocketing, buying certain items in bulk can be an effective cost-saving strategy -- but just like with meal prepping, buying more food than you need isn’t a bargain if that food goes to waste.
WCNC Charlotte is always asking "where's the money?" If you need help, reach out to WCNC Charlotte by emailing money@wcnc.com.
The solution? Focus on buying basics that have long shelf lives.
3. Fancy recipes.
Making meals that require tons of gourmet, specialized ingredients can actually cost you more than eating at a restaurant.
The solution? Select recipes based on spices and staples you already have or that can be used in multiple recipes in the future.
Contact Carolyn Bruck at cbruck@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.