8. Deli Counter Meats and Cheeses
The deli counter can feel like a gourmet experience, with freshly sliced turkey, ham, and provolone. While the quality can sometimes be higher, the prices are always significantly inflated compared to pre-packaged versions. You are paying for the convenience and the labor of the deli employee. This is another area where a quick look at the price per pound reveals a huge difference.
For example, sliced deli turkey might be $12.99 per pound at the counter. In the refrigerated section nearby, you might find a 1-pound package of a comparable quality pre-sliced turkey for $8.99. That is a savings of $4.00 on a single pound. The same applies to cheeses. A block of cheddar cheese is always cheaper per pound than having the same cheese sliced for you at the deli.
The Money-Saving Move: Compare Pre-Packaged and Slice Your Own
Before you take a number at the deli, walk over to the packaged lunch meat and cheese section. Compare the price per pound. Often, the pre-packaged options are a much better value. Look for lower-sodium and nitrate-free options if health is a concern; many brands now offer healthier choices.
For even greater savings, buy whole roasts or turkey breasts when they are on sale. Cook them at home, and once cooled, you can slice the meat thinly for sandwiches all week. It will be fresher, you control the ingredients, and the cost per pound will be a fraction of what you would pay at the deli. For cheese, buying a block and slicing it as needed is the most frugal approach.
