What's a good buy?

Milk

Compare unit prices. Larger containers tend to be the best buy

One gallon @ $3.39 = 16 cups = 21¢ per cup
One half-gallon @ $2.39  = 8 cups = 30¢ per cup
One quart @ $1.79 = 4 cups = 45¢ per cup

Switch to skim. If your family doesn’t like skim, try mixing it with the milk you now buy and gradually increase the proportion. A family of four that changes from whole milk to nonfat milk can save $8 to $11 a week AND shave off 5,040 calories and 518 grams of fat.

Cheese

Compare unit prices and be flexible. Because cheese is packaged in many sizes and forms, it is especially useful to base buying decisions on the unit price (in this case: the price per ounce). Divide the package cost by the number of ounces in the package to find the best buy.

8-ounce package @ $3.53 = $.44/oz	12-ounce package @ $2.47 = $.21/oz	8-ounce package @ $3.58 = $.45/oz	6-ounce package @ $3.99 = $.67/oz

Stock up on sale-priced items. Check the use-by date and consider your refrigerator or freezer capacity. Cheese can be frozen but it tends to become crumbly.

Adjust recipes. Try using only half as much, or sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of a salad or casserole instead of using it as a main ingredient.

Yogurt

Check the cost of convenience. If you like the convenience of single-size cartons, watch for sales. Otherwise, larger cartons are generally cheaper when you compare the price per ounce.

32-ounce store brand non fat @ $1.66 = $.05 per ounce	6-ounce store brand flavored non fat @ $.60 = $.10 per ounce	Package of eight 2.25-ounce name brand portable yogurt treats (18 ounces) @ $2.95 = $.16 per ounce

Add your own fruit. Fruit-flavored varieties may cost more and include jam-like fruit that adds extra sugar. Also, the sweetened fruit replaces some of the yogurt in the carton so you get less of the calcium-rich yogurt. Try buying plain or vanilla yogurt and adding your own fruit.