An article recently published in the Huffington Post Eating Out Less shows that more and more Americans are choosing to dine at home rather than out.

According to the article, two out of five Americans are dining out less than earlier this year. Much of this can be attributed to the fact that many Americans are looking for ways to save money, choosing to stay in more and going out less for dinner.

So, how are food retailers helping families respond to this trend? According to a study released by FMI and Booz & Company, supermarkets are offering more value through a variety of ways:

• Loyalty card discounts and value-oriented private label products
• Notifying consumers about relevant coupons
• Providing time- and money-saving grocery buying tips
• Lower prices on staple items, including fresh fruits and vegetables, peanut better, etc.

The efforts that food retailers are not only helping Americans keep money in their wallets, but are bringing families together around the dinner table. Eating together can also have a positive impact on children’s development. Here’s how:

According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse The Importance of Family Dinners VI (CASA) at Columbia University, kids who have dinner with their families:

• Are less likely to consume alcohol and/or do drugs
• Will less likely be obese, choosing healthier options
• And, perform better in school

As more and more Americans become more frugal about spending, stores have an opportunity to not only provide value when it comes saving, but can help families plan their meal schedules.

Whether it’s picking up a rotisserie chicken and salad from the market or gathering ingredients for a Sunday meal, consumers are always looking for tips and advice when it comes to preparing meals for their families.

What are you doing at your stores to help consumers with their day-to-day meals?