Check outfood plans

At first glance, buying a membership in a food-buying plan may seem like a way to pay a fixed dollar amount for food, but food suppliers of these plans are faced with the same price factors as other sellers of food are, according to a family resource management specialist at the University of Minnesota.

If they cannot pass on increased costs, it is only natural to assume they must make other adjustments as prices rise.

Finally, consider the reputation of the company offering the food plan. Local Better Business Bureaus or an office of consumer services may have the information you need to make this decision.