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With food prices climbing steadily over the past few years—thanks to inflation, supply chain issues, and rising fuel costs—it’s more important than ever to shop smart. Every dollar counts, and small changes in your shopping habits can add up to big savings over time.
Whether you’re feeding a large family or just trying to cut back on waste, these tips will help you save money on food without sacrificing nutrition or flavor. Many of them take time and patience, but it'll be worth it.
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1. Check the paper for sales
Yes, it’s old-school, but flyers and weekly ads still offer some of the best deals. Look for buy-one-get-one-free offers and deep discounts on meat and pantry staples. Combine these sales with coupons for extra savings.
2. Make a list
Start by planning meals around sale items, then write out exactly what you need. This keeps you focused and helps avoid tossing random items into your cart. Bonus: You’ll waste less food and time.
3. Go shopping less often
Fewer trips to the store mean fewer chances to impulse buy. Try shopping once a week or even once every two weeks. When you stick to a routine, you’ll learn to plan better and save more.
4. Don’t shop on an empty stomach
It’s easier to resist junk food and overpriced snacks when you’re full. Eat a solid meal before heading to the store to help keep cravings (and your spending) in check.
5. Use coupons
Digital coupons and apps like Honey or Rakuten make it easier than ever to save. Just be careful to use them only on items you were planning to buy anyway—don’t let a coupon trick you into spending more.
6. Buy generic food
Store brands often come from the same factories as the name brands but without the markup. Look for them on higher and lower shelves—they’re usually not at eye level.
7. Calculate the price per unit
The bigger container isn’t always the better deal. Always check the unit price (often printed on the shelf tag) to see which option actually costs less per ounce or pound.
8. Make sure it's actually a good deal
Some “sales” are just clever signage. If an item is regularly priced at $5, then “2 for $10” isn’t a discount. Stay sharp and check the regular price.
9. Buy in bulk
Buying in larger quantities can save you money—if it’s something you use regularly and it won’t spoil before you can eat it. Think pantry staples like rice, pasta, or canned goods.
10. Avoid convenience foods
Pre-sliced fruits, shredded cheese, and bagged salads are marked up for the convenience. Buy whole ingredients and prep them yourself to save a significant amount.
11. Avoid ready-made meals
Prepared meals are not only pricier, but often loaded with sodium and preservatives. Learning to cook simple meals from scratch can drastically cut your grocery bill.
12. Don’t buy bottled water
A good reusable water bottle and a basic filter pitcher will save you hundreds of dollars a year. Plus, it’s better for the environment.
13. Don’t buy flavored drinks
Soda, juice, and energy drinks are expensive and often unhealthy. Stick to water or make your own herbal teas at home for a refreshing, budget-friendly option.
14. Find cheap substitutes
Swap expensive cuts of meat for more affordable ones. Use beans or lentils to stretch meat dishes. Pasta, rice, and eggs can also help round out a meal without costing much.
15. Buy frozen fruits and veggies
Frozen produce is picked at peak ripeness and is often more affordable than fresh, especially out of season. It’s great for smoothies, stir-fries, and soups.
16. Get the store’s discount card
Sign up for your grocery store’s loyalty program. These cards often unlock instant savings, member-only coupons, and points you can redeem for cash back.
17. Compare prices
Don’t assume your usual store is the cheapest. Check local ads, store apps, or use price comparison websites to see where you’ll get the most bang for your buck.
18. Use the produce scale
It’s easy to misjudge weight and end up overpaying. Use the store’s scale to weigh items before putting them in your cart, especially things like grapes or apples sold by the pound.
19. Buy cold cuts in the deli
Deli meats are often fresher, cheaper, and less processed than their pre-packaged counterparts. You can also buy exactly what you need, avoiding waste.
20. Watch the cash register like a hawk
Mistakes happen. Items scan at the wrong price, deals don’t apply correctly, or you get charged twice. Stay alert during checkout and double-check your receipt.
21. Meal prep for the week
Cooking in batches helps you use ingredients efficiently and avoid last-minute takeout. Make a few big meals and portion them out—this saves time, money, and stress.
22. Grow your own herbs or veggies
A small herb garden on your windowsill or balcony can save you from buying $3 bundles of parsley every week. If you have more space, try tomatoes, lettuce, or peppers.
23. Shop farmer’s markets at the end of the day
Vendors often lower prices near closing time to avoid hauling unsold produce back home. You might score some great deals on fruits and veggies.
24. Store food properly
Keep produce fresh longer by learning the best storage methods. For example, keep apples in the fridge, onions in a cool dark place, and herbs in a jar of water like flowers.
25. Shop seasonal produce
Fruits and vegetables are cheapest (and tastiest) when they're in season. Buying what's currently being harvested locally can cut costs significantly. Bonus: seasonal produce often travels a shorter distance, which means it’s fresher and more nutritious too. Keep a list of seasonal items handy so you know what to look for each time you shop.
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