Pay attention to the following tips: 

• When you're running errands, grocery shop last.  In the store, grab the cold (and frozen) foods just before check-out so they don't have a chance to thaw out.    
• If you live some distance from the grocery store, use coolers for perishables.
• Take food straight home to the refrigerator.  Do not leave food in a hot car. 
• Buy what you can use by the "use-by" date.  If you eat food after the use-by date, it may be spoiled or diminished in quality. 
• Do not buy food in poor condition.  Make sure cold food is cold and frozen food shows no signs of "freezer burn" or leakage.  Canned goods should be free of dents, cracks or bulging lids; if you notice any of these, let the store manager know.