Kim, I am 54 and my parents were depression day kids and I was taught the same thing. Yes it could be frugal (families of 6 and 8 had to be during the depression). I also still have a ' laid in' supply of food stuffs - also taught to me by my parents. My sisters and I believe it was because our father never had that much food at his growing up home. My thoughts for what they are worth. PS - My 30 year old son does the same thing at his home. Kathy N