This section is from the book "A Manual Of Home-Making", by Martha Van Rensselaer. Also available from Amazon: A Manual of Home-Making.
The question of where to buy may be settled by buying where the maximum value can be obtained for the minimum price. This place can be determined by a study of markets. It is always advisable to know the sanitary conditions surrounding the production and marketing of the products. There is also to be considered the factor of discounts, generally based on the amount bought, the time and place of delivery, and the delivery charges. When buying from out of town, it is necessary to consider the cost of freight and cartage. Cheapness does not always mean good quality or full weight. Every food at a reduced price is offered for one of two reasons: because the market is over-supplied; or because the owner is afraid to risk further depreciation. In most cases this depreciation has already set in, and it is unwise to buy such food unless it can be used immediately. If the dealer is selling goods below the market price, the goods are generally below the market standards. Only an expert can know a bargain.
 
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