How America Cooks, Eats and Shops

Better Homes and Gardens announced findings from a nationwide survey conducted among more than 2,100 women that takes a comprehensive look at women's motivations, attitudes and behaviors relating to food.

The study, entitled “The Food Factor: How America Cooks, Eats and Shops” highlights that the vast majority (95%) of women are "very/somewhat concerned" about the cost of food today. With the American women's average grocery bill nearly 50% higher than two years ago, the downturn in the economy has had a direct impact on running a household.

Women are taking measures to protect themselves against these rising prices and the bad economy; 71% of women are stocking up on bargains, 66% are eating out less often and 63% are comparing prices at the same stores more carefully.

Other measures to economize include 54% of women freezing foods and cooking in batches (21%). They are also cutting back on certain foods including baked goods and desserts (52%), convenience foods (48%), wine/alcohol (37%) and gourmet oils (36%).

These results further support why the number one requested item in a kitchen is a pantry. If you are remodeling your kitchen for resale, knowing these facts about how women shop and cook can help you make your house more appealing.