Results of a recent Bumble Bee Foods survey suggest that a significant majority of consumers are spending more or about the same on groceries as they did two years ago, but a relatively limited percentage of shoppers are fully recognizing cost saving opportunities beyond the typical approach of looking for the best prices, special offers and/or coupons.

In an opinion survey targeting a national random sample of 1,000-plus respondents, the Bumble Bee-commissioned research found that 81% of consumers are spending more or about the same on groceries as they did two years ago. But the same respondents confirmed that they are also actively looking for ways to save on their grocery bills, including shopping for best prices at a variety of stores, and using coupons as well as other techniques to extend the value of their spending. According to Bumble Bee, the results of the survey indicate the opportunity for consumers to realize additional savings by following a few simple tips.

Meal Planning
While respondents sought ways to save on grocery spending, only 50% admitted to meal planning as a technique. Meal planning can lead to tighter budgeting, offer cost and time efficiencies around busy schedules, and ensure that groceries purchased will in fact be used up before ingredients spoil.

Reducing Grocery Waste
Despite the frugal spending and budgeting that comes with challenging economic times, nearly one quarter of all respondents said they still throw away 10% or more of their grocery purchases as a result of items spoiling.

While meal planning is one way to help alleviate food waste, so is balancing your grocery shopping between the fresh vegetables, fruit and meats sections with center of the store dry-grocery purchases. Many ingredients that go into creating a host of meals are found in these canned and packaged food aisles of the grocery store.

Shopping Center Aisle
Approximately 25% of respondents confirmed using more canned protein foods than they were two years ago, with the majority using about the same or less. Many packaged foods located in most central aisles of the grocery store are great to have on hand in the pantry to create meal solutions for the family, special guests, or for a quick snack. And given their affordable price points and relatively longer shelf life which helps to avoid waste, consumers can prepare numerous heart healthy recipes and achieve further savings by using these products.

Bumble Bee Foods
As we get into the new year, Bumble Bee offers solutions and meal ideas to create your favorite recipes, while offering convenience and nutrition at great value. The Bumblebee.com Web site allows consumers to preview Bumble Bee’s entire line of healthy, protein-packed seafood products and never run out of recipe ideas. The site has a user-friendly recipe finder that allows customers to search by meal type, ingredient, and even special dietary considerations. It is a great tool for planning out a shopping list in order to stay on budget and keep from bringing home extra unnecessary items that may end up going to waste.

Get Creative
Stocking up on canned and pouch products such as tuna and chicken that can be used in a variety of recipes ensures that you maximize the value of your purchases at the grocery store. Tuna, for example, does not have to be limited to traditional tuna sandwiches. Whole grain pasta with tuna, tuna fajitas and even pizza with tuna are just a few great meal options rich in protein and full of heart-healthy omega-3s. Let the kids get involved in the preparation for added fun and have a balanced healthy meal on the table in minutes.

How are you saving money on groceries this year? Tell me in a comment!