Regain control of food budget

Joan Hanson, test kitchen director for Hormel Foods, offers ways families can regain control over their food budget.

--Reduce supermarket stops to put a stop to impulse buying.

--Manage a meal menu. Plan your meals for the week, and concentrate on only buying items that you need.

--Build a budget. When you get home from the grocery store, multiply your bill by four and you will have a fairly accurate estimate of your monthly food costs. Stay within this price range.

--Search for sales. Check the newspaper or fliers to stay informed.