7 Tips on How to Save Money on Meat and Fish During a Recession

The global economy is in a state of flux, and many people are feeling the pinch.

In these challenging times, it's crucial to find ways of smart spending while still eating well. One of the biggest expenses in most households is groceries, and meat and fish are often some of the priciest items on the grocery bill.

In these tough economic times, knowing what meats to buy during a recession or even how to save some bucks can be difficult. With poultry, meat, and fish prices skyrocketing, it's essential to look for ways to save on meat and fish costs. 

But there is hope! With a little planning and knowledge, you can make smart choices that will allow you to save money on your meat and fish purchases while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals.

Keep reading to unlock 7 secrets that can help you save your money on meat and fish during a global recession.

7 Tips on How to Save Money on Meat and Fish

Everyone is asking why are beef prices so high in 2023.

Let us take you in on our secret!

Buying in bulk, finding the best deals, meal planning in advance, and shopping from your local stores instead of high-end brands are just some secrets to keeping afloat while the world suffers a recession.

Stick around because these tips will help you get the most bang for your buck while still enjoying your favorite meats and fish.

The following are some tips on what you can do to cut costs when shopping for meat and fish during a recession. 

1.    Buying In Bulk - An Economical Meat Option for Families

One of the best ways to save on meat and fish costs during a recession is to buy in bulk. Buying larger quantities of the same item can be budget-friendly since most stores will offer discounts for larger purchases. This will usually mean a lower price per pound.

Consider purchasing family-sized packs of budget-friendly cuts of meat, such as ground beef, pork shoulder, and chicken breasts. This allows you to enjoy the savings now and store what you don't need for later. 

Similarly, buying economical and low-cost seafood in bulk, such as canned tuna and salmon, is a great way to stay within your food budget and make the most of your budget-friendly meal planning.

Just make sure you have enough freezer space, and be mindful of the expiration dates.

2.    Buy Generic or Store-Brand Items

Often, stores offer their own branded items, such as poultry, meat, and fish, at a lower price than name-brand alternatives. Generic or store-brand poultry, meat, and fish tend to be much more affordable than name-brand alternatives, so that you can keep your food budget in check. No doubt you can make significant savings with these products since they are often just as good.

3.    Choose Cheaper Cuts of Meat for Budget-Conscious Families

Some cuts of meat are more expensive than others. For example, tenderloin steaks are often more cost-effective than sirloin or flank steaks. So, consider switching to these inexpensive cuts of meat.

When it comes to cuts of meat, look for inexpensive options like ground beef, chicken thighs, and pork shoulder. You can use ground meat instead of steaks and roasts, as these cuts tend to be less costly but still provide plenty of flavors. 

If you're in the mood for low-cost seafood, there are plenty of budget-friendly options, such as canned tuna, tilapia filets, and shrimp.

4.    Try Alternative Protein Sources During a Recession

Even before inflation, meat was expensive. In the current situation, with many countries on the brink of recession (or already in it), consumers are cutting back on spending, which results in switching to more inexpensive sources of protein.

Therefore, it is worthwhile to try to replace the meat component of the meal with a substitute that has a similar level of protein content as the meat component. Like people who can afford to eat fish, such as salmon, can switch to cheap fish options in order to save money. For example, consumers of beef or pork can swap chicken for them to save money.

Meat and fish are not the only sources of protein. Beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh are nutritious and affordable protein options. Including these items in your diet can help you spend smartly and eat a more balanced diet.

5.    Consider Buying Frozen or Canned Fish

Fresh fish can be expensive, but frozen or canned fish are often much more cost-effective. These options are also a convenient way to have fish on hand for quick and easy meals.

6.    Planning Meals to Save On Meat and Fish Costs in A Recession

Dining like a king the week after payday, then stressing over leftovers the week before payday? Track your food expenses in real-time.

Budget-friendly meal planning can be a practical way to stretch your grocery budget. Before you head to the grocery store, make a plan for the week's meals and make a list of what you need. Take some time to plan meals that use cheaper cuts of meat or generic/store-brand items. 

This will help you avoid impulse purchases and stick to your budget while still enjoying delicious meals.

7.    Take Advantage of The Best Sales and Discounts on Meat and Fish

If you have meat and fish on your shopping list and find them on sale, be sure to take advantage of them. Most grocery chains also offer loyalty cards and apps, allowing you to take advantage of unique promotions. Weekly promotions are also included in the newsletters of most major chains. 

So, keep an eye out for sales and discounts on meat and fish. So, you can check in advance whether any items on your shopping list can be obtained cheaper in another store. Stock up when items are on sale, and take advantage of any special offers.

The Bottom Line!

Eating well during a recession can be a challenge. But with a little bit of planning and savvy shopping, it is possible to save money on your meat and fish purchases while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals. 

By following these tips, you can be sure that you are getting the most bang for your buck and feeding your family well in these difficult times.