What is the techniques of controlling the food cost in Food and Beverages Operations?

As per my experience basically food and beverages cost more if it is being imported from other country due to higher transportation and shipping cost.

so buyer must have the appropriate data of available stock with expiry date, as well as market expectations. 

Accordingly order can be placed and look for seller with easy connectivity so that you can have less cost for shipping and transportation.

I have handled many shipments for beverages and what i experienced is the cost of  transportation, shipping and custom clearance were very high or some time equals to the cost of product itself.

So considering the requirement of product, available time in hand, and shipping/transportation options, one can choose the cheapest  way of shipping.

Further regarding the food items it depends upon commodity whether it is perishable or not ? and availability of connectivity from seller point to the buyer.

One can choose the best available option considering all factors involved and urgency of product.

choosing best options for shipping may reduce the cost at least by 5-15% more or less., it depends upon geographical location.