Smart Shopping: Groceries

WSVN -- Cereal for breakfast, a nice sandwich for lunch and a hot meal for dinner. Food is often one of the biggest family expenses.

Haydee Romanik: "I have three young children, and it helps when I can bulk up on the things that they like best."

Even new mom Gina is feeling the pressure.

Gina Guzman: "She has so many expenses. I try to look for the cheapest things, and, you know, try to save."

From milk to meat, coffee to cookies, everything is on the rise.

Kim Jaeger: "We have seen prices increase, particularly our baked goods. There's a higher demand for those products."

But it's also staples like milk and eggs. Milk is up 26 percent, eggs a whopping 40 percent. Kim Jaeger from Publix says that's why shoppers should know what they need before going to the supermarket.

Kim Jaeger: "You need to check your cupboards. There's probably a lot of food in your cupboards that you don't realize is there."

One of the biggest areas a family can cut back is on meat spending.

Kim Jaeger: "Take a look at the price per pound. You can buy more for less."

To save, look for a whole chicken instead of separate pieces. You're paying more for the butcher to cut it up.

Also, keep an eye out for specials, and buy meat when it's on sale. In fact, store specials can save you a lot of money.

Gina Guzman: "I bought one, and I got one free. The savings do add up at the end."

And on your way in grab that weekly flyer. Most have special savings and coupons.

Kim Jaeger: "Our weekly ads come out every Thursday. Our 'Advantage Buy' ad lasts for several weeks."

Eli Seijas tries to shop for what's in season.

Eli Seijas: "We normally buy fruits and vegetables in season. Oranges in the winter, bananas and mangoes in the summer."

If you buy foods in season, they tend to be cheaper. Another money saving tip, make a list, and then only buy what's on it.

Eli Seijas: "I use a computer software for that."

Adding extra impulse items to your cart can really add up. A quick way to save a bundle, try store brands or generics.

Kim Jaeger: "You can save between 10 to 30 percent compared to national brand products."

Robbin Simmons: "Some other saving tips, track your food expenses. In a month or so you may be able to spot areas where you can save. Also, pay attention to what you throw away. That way you'll learn how much food to cook, so you don't have to waste."