One way to look at value is by considering ROI, return on your investment. When it comes to food, your immediate thought might be its purchase price, but the returns from food also includes sensual enjoyment (great taste) and health benefits. From a nutritional standpoint, value means investing your resources (time and dollars) in foods that provides you with nutrients as well as enjoyment.

It comes as no surprise, then, that with food, just as with financial concerns, when you don't get a reasonable return from your investment, it isn't a value! Here are some value ideas to consider:

• Fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are all nutritious choices. If added salt is an issue, check out Giant Eagle's^® selection of vegetables canned without salt, or rinse canned vegetables to lower the salt content.
• Every fresh food has a season when it is a better value, often because it is locally grown. Buying seasonal specials saves money and also provides quality nutrition and taste!
• Frozen vegetables are a value any season and you already know they are a nutrition value! But consider the number of servings you get from a package and you may find big savings in bulk or larger packages.
• When you check the price and the number of servings from any food purchase, think also about your family size and your storage area. The real value comes when you can easily use the amount you are buying in a reasonable time! Foods that age or spoil before they are used are a nutrient loss and are unsafe.
• You also lose food value when you overcook vegetables or meat. Follow package directions for cooking frozen or canned items. If uncertain how to cook your purchase, ask the experts at Giant Eagle^® for cooking tips. And know that fresh veggies are best steamed, microwaved, roasted, stir-fried, or grilled.
• When perishable foods come at a great value, think of buying enough for several meals. Cooking large amounts can mean planned leftovers for another meal or two. And immediately freeze the extras if you know it won't be used within 2-3 days. Value comes from keeping foods safe as well as nutritious — and using every last ounce.
• Add end bits and pieces to soup, chili or casseroles, or as a base to make your own broth or stock. These freeze easily and give you ingredients for another meal.

Along with manager's and store specials, using your Giant Eagle Advantage Card^® and coupons and some value management tips, you can increase your ROI!

Have a question for Judy about this article or need some healthy recipes for summer? Send her an e-mail at nutritionist@GiantEagle.com.

July 2009