30 ways in 30 days [part 2]

ways 11 - 20 on stretching your fruit and vegetable budget:

11. Homemade soup is a healthy and tasty way to use vegetables. Make a big batch and freeze leftovers.

12. Looks for sales and deals on fruits and vegetables at the grocery store or through coupons.

13. Cut your fruits and vegetables at home. Pre-cut produce can cost much more than whole fruits and vegetables (and can go bad faster as well).

14. Don't shop hungry. Eat a health snack before shopping so you stick to your budget and avoid spending f/v money on less healthy temptations.

15. Maximize your time and money. Cut coupons for foods (such as f/v) only on your list.

16. Canned fruits and vegetables will last a long time and can be a healthy side to meals. Choose canned vegetables that have no added salt and fruit canned in 100% fruit juice.

17. Fruit and vegetables freeze well and you can store them until you're ready to add them to a meal.

18. Pick your own at local farms. Late summer and early fall is a great time to pick your own fruits and vegetables.

19. Dried fruit lasts for a long time. It can be more expensive, however, so buy with friends and split the cost, or find access to a drier and dry fruits your self.

20. Store brands can be a cheaper choice for fruits and vegetables.

30 ways in 30 days

ways 1 - 10 on stretching your fruit and vegetable budget:

1. Calculate an appropriate Healthy Food Budget for your family. Use this easy calculator!

2. Cook enough for several meals and freeze leftovers.

3. Create a meal plan that uses similar fruits and vegetables in different ways. Make the most out of the produce you buy.

4. Buy fruits and vegetables in season at farmers' markets or at your grocery store

5. Grow your own vegetables. Invest a little, get a lot! Visit here for more information.

6. Mix it yourself. 100% juice from concentrate is often less expensive per serving than pre-bottled juice.

7. Minimize waste: only buy what you will eat!

8. Learn basic food math. With a food budget, decisions can be easier. Food math can help you decide if the watermelon or the bunch of grapes is a better buy.

9. Enjoy the comforts of home more often. Eating at restaurants increases the amount you spend on food. Include fruits and vegetables in quick, simple meals you prepare at home.

10. Be creative! To get the most out of your purchase, use fruits and vegetables in different ways. Here are some ways to liven up your fruits and veggies!