Survey Finds Shoppers Cutting Meals Amid Rising Costs

As food costs strain household budgets, several articles point to practical ways to eat affordably, from local cafes and lower-priced restaurant dishes to cooking at home. A Savannah guide highlights neighborhood spots such as SIXBY, where sourdough costs $3, a breakfast sandwich $8, and a cappuccino $4.50; a separate roundup identifies budget-friendly Panera menu items, though prices vary by location. Home cooks can stretch groceries by planning meals, using leftovers, and making filling soups and stews with modest amounts of meat, vegetables, and pantry staples. The pressure is widespread: a survey found that more than half of respondents spend more on groceries than a year earlier, while many report skipping meals, reducing portions, or buying fewer fruits and vegetables. Comparing prices across retailers and combining lower-cost shopping with planned, home-cooked meals may help households manage expenses.