Top Shopping Tips To Save Money On Food
Top Shopping Tips to Save on Food
As grocery prices continue to rise due to factors like oil prices, global warming, and poor crop yields, it's important to find smart ways to save money without compromising your health. In this article, we'll share 8 shopping tips to help you cut your grocery bill while maintaining the quality and nutrition of your meals.
1. Plan ahead
It pays to check what you've already got in the cupboard before you go grocery shopping. That way, you're less likely to overbuy. Have a detailed grocery list based on what you need and your plan for the week's meals. Don't forget to make allowances for any leftovers you might have. Before you head for the grocery store make sure you have a bite to eat first. Shopping when you're hungry means you're more likely to impulse buy, stray from your grocery list, and fall for those tempting deals that hide at the end of the aisles.2. Make healthy choices
Believe it or not, eating healthy food can save you money. Healthy eating usually involves smaller portion sizes, fewer high-calorie foods, and fewer unnecessary extras such as chips, sodas, and bakery items.3. Buy produce when it's in season
The fresh produce in the grocery store that's in season is usually priced to sell. You'll also get some great deals if you shop at your local farmer's market for local produce.4. Take advantage of coupons and sales
If you plan your weekly menu around what's on sale, you'll lower your grocery bill. Use coupons and you'll make even bigger savings. However, be careful to only use coupons or buy sale items for the things you'd be buying anyway. A bargain isn't a bargain if you buy it and it sits on the shelf forever.5. Brown-bag it
It may be quicker and easier to grab a quick sandwich and latte from the coffee shop down the street, but making your own lunch and taking it with you is an excellent way to save money. It's also a good way to use leftovers and control the ingredients, making sure what you use is healthy and low in calories.6. Buy generic
Are you a sucker for popular brands? You can save a heap of cash by buying store brands instead. Standards are in place to ensure all food manufacturers provide high quality food for the consumer. And you probably didn't realize that many grocery companies buy national-brand products only made to their own specifications. This means they can put their own label on such products.
