Thrifty Thursday - Keeping food costs down

Let me start out today by saying that I'm not a vegan, I am not gluten-free, I don't have allergies but I DO care about feeding my family healthily and frugally.   There are certain things we can all do, regardless of special needs and diets.  Might I suggest the following...

1. Cut back on restaurant and fast food meals.  This is probably the number one killer of a food budget.
2. Learn to recreate your favorite restaurant meals at home.  You can find knock-off recipes easily online.  You'll spend MUCH less than going out!
3. Serve your family at least one meatless meal each week. 
4. In general, the more processed a food is, the more expensive it is.  Try cutting down on pre-packaged food at the grocery store.
5. Incorporate more whole grains in your diet.  They're inexpensive and good for you.  Learn to cook them!
6. Buy fruit in season.  It's cheaper (and sweeter) in its peak freshness.
7. Try to get rid of the soda habit.  There is nothing nutritionally redeeming about soda, diet or regular.
8. Shop the sales but only buy what your family eats.
9. Stock up on frequently used items.  Buy those things in bulk.
10. Beef is more expensive per pound than most other protein.  Try to use it a little more sparingly.
11. Use your crockpot for less tender cuts of meat and soups and stews.
12. Have an occasional breakfast for dinner night.  Pancakes and eggs make great dinners!
13. Comparison shop.  Don't assume the larger package is cheaper per pound than the smaller size.
14. Try to shop when you're not hungry or under pressure.
15. Try to leave the spouse and kids at home.  They are notorious for adding impulse items to your grocery cart!
16. Shop from a grocery list.  Stick to it.

These are just a few of the things you can do to keep your food costs down.  They're relatively painless too  :)  If you have any more ideas, please let me know and I'll add them!  Thanks!