Feed a family of four on $10 a day

Photograph: Daniel Pangbourne

Here in Gotham, even groceries are expensive. But you can still feed a family of four for a full week on just $75, even if you shop at a high-end market. Compare these menus and shopping lists from an average supermarket (Key Food in Greenpoint, Brooklyn), a moderately pricey home delivery option (Fresh Direct) and the store some like to call Whole Paycheck.

The ground rules:
•We assumed that the average pantry contains the basics—oil and vinegar, peanut butter, mayo, grains, broth, garlic, onions and spices.
•Studies show that most Americans get plenty of protein; it didn’t need to be the star of each meal.
•Whenever possible, we bought organic. This didn’t turn out to be terribly workable for $75.

The takeaway:
•Buy store brands—at Whole Foods, nearly everything in the cart bore their 365 Everyday Value label.
•If you can, buy from bulk bins. You’ll get exactly what you need, and per-pound prices are much lower.
•Shop sales. Roasting bargain chicken quarters yielded four meals from Key Food and five from Fresh Direct. (Even on sale, we couldn’t swing the meat at Whole Foods.)
•Frozen produce is your friend. It’s good for your body and your wallet.
•Save even more: Use dried beans, not canned.

$10 a day menus at…

Key Food | Fresh Direct | Whole Foods