1. Shop with a plan. “The average family of four throws out $500 to $600 of spoiled food per year, Inventory your pantry, freezer and fridge to build meals from what you already have.” Check out apps such as FoodontheTable.com to figure out what you can make with what’s on hand. Then, download your grocery store’s weekly ad, and list what you need to round out your weekly menu. A list also helps you get in and out of the store faster, which could save you money: Studies show the longer we stay, the more we buy. Avoid prepackaged or prepared foods, such as pasta and rice dishes. “They’re convenient, but expensive and contain far more sodium, calories and sugar than is healthy,” Finally, never shop on an empty stomach, so you don’t cave in to impulse buys