<p>Ok, I was checking attached USDA estimate of average food costs nationwide, and it matches up with my personal $200/mo. food cost estimate for one thrifty eating person. I probably average two meals prepared at my apartment each day and usually I eat one meal or some snacks out each day. I’m not counting in my costs things purchased at grocery store like paper goods, soap, cigs, booze, cosmetics, aspirin, etc. …just food and also drinks like bottled water and some soda. On the attached USDA chart, a 20 yr old girl at thrift level needs $161/mo. + 20% added for just being one person in my household = $193/month for food for a person eating ALL their meals at home. $200/month is plenty for me! If you’re are eating high on the hog with prime cuts of meat at each meal at the liberal level on attached USDA–you could spend $350/month. I don’t eat at the liberal/deluxe level.</p>
<p>I do about half my grocery purchases at the Ocala Rd. Publix location, and half at the W. Tennessee Ave. Wal-Mart. </p>
<p><a href=“http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/FoodPlans/2012/CostofFoodJun2012.pdf[/url]”>http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/FoodPlans/2012/CostofFoodJun2012.pdf</a></p>