All foods are beginning to be sold by weight. This is most desirable. Food of good quality bought thus enables one to know accurately what is obtained, also to learn more easily how much is eaten. It is advisable in buying to know what different quantities of different foods weigh; as, 1 pk. of peas weighs about 6 lb., and 3 lb. yield about 1 lb. shelled. At 50¢ a peck they then cost 25¢ per pound shelled. (This is buying at the highest price and in small quantity.) Canned peas cost 15¢ to 30¢ (according to quality) and weigh 1 lb. Do fresh or canned peas cost more ?

Many foods are usually sold by box or basket at a stated price for all. Too frequently these are not of even quality or degree of freshness. Fresh and stale food should not be sold mixed; they are not of the same value. Even when sold at an averaged price, such mixing is undesirable. They do not cook evenly. Fresh string-beans, for example, may cook in 20 to 30 min. Those traveled and held require 1 1/2 to 3 hours.

Such practices as using sound, ripe tomatoes for top rows on boxes of those less acceptable should be discouraged. It is not thus that a good food-supply at fair cost is insured to a community. Packing food in movable trays (paper or other) aids in inspection. Food-quality always needs to be known. See what is bought; buy what is good; keep food well and use fully.

Some foods may be home-stored if house space is available at suitable temperature with pure atmosphere and sanitary care. Flour is desirable by the barrel when it can be kept dry and away from all animal life. Potatoes may be stored by the barrel for winter use when they can be kept cool and dark, with air excluded. Few foods will, however, keep in hot apartment-houses. Though small buying is higher and to be avoided, wasteful use is no more economical. Three for 25 cents is not wise, saving buying, if only one is used or is superior.