Learn quick ways to save money on your next grocery run!
“I spent too much on groceries this week” is a phrase many of us can relate to. Whether it’s the resisting temptation of delicious food displays or shopping without a plan, sticking to a grocery budget can be tough. And with grocery prices on the rise, finding ways to save money is more important than ever.
Here are some tips I use to help stick to a better food budget:
Consider purchasing dual purpose items
Do you ever buy ingredients for a specific recipe and then struggle to use up the leftovers? This often leads to wasted food and money. To save on your grocery budget, consider purchasing versatile ingredients that can be stretched across multiple recipes. Pantry staples like dried beans, lentils, brown rice, oats, and frozen veggie medleys are inexpensive, have a long shelf life, and can be paired with a variety of foods in different dishes.
For example, you can use lentils in soups, salads, or even as a base for veggie burgers. Brown rice can be a side dish, a component in stir-fries, or even a breakfast porridge. By choosing ingredients that offer flexibility, you'll maximize their use and minimize waste.
Search for digital coupons on grocery store apps and websites
Signing up for email newsletters from your favorite grocery stores or brands can be a smart way to receive special offers and coupons directly. Many grocery stores also have mobile apps highlighting items on sale with digital coupons, making it easier to save on your purchases.
If you frequently shop at a specific store, consider joining their loyalty program. This often provides cashback opportunities or reward points, helping you save even more. Additionally, checking your local grocery store's website for their sales ads and scheduling your grocery runs on sale days can significantly reduce your food expenses. By leveraging these resources, you can stretch your grocery budget further and make the most of your shopping experience.
Examples:
Siggis: https://siggis.com/coupons
Noosa yogurt: https://noosayoghurt.com/fan-club/
Canyon bakehouse: https://canyonglutenfree.com/coupons/
Barilla pasta: https://www.barilla.com/en-us/register
You can also use my discount codes to save % off snacks bars, pasta sauce, & more! Find the discount codes here
Look out for seasonal produce
Take a peek at your grocery list this week to see if you have any seasonal items on it. Purchasing in-season produce can save you money, offer better taste quality, and support local farms. You might notice that apples are more abundant and cost less in the fall, while strawberries tend to be pricier in the winter. Grocery stores often have to transport food long distances to make certain items available year-round, which can drive up prices.
Buying produce that's in season in your area can be more cost-effective. What's in season can vary depending on where you live. To get started, check out this seasonal produce guide.
Celebrate Meatless Mondays or Veggie Wednesdays
Meat-based proteins often come with a higher price tag compared to vegetarian protein sources like beans and lentils. Swapping a meat-based dish for a vegetarian meal once or twice a week can save you money and reduce your environmental impact. Plus, increasing your intake of plant-based foods has been linked to better blood sugar control, improved gut health, and enhanced heart health.
For instance, if you love beef tacos for dinner, try swapping the meat for canned unsalted black beans. This simple change not only saves money but also adds a nutritious and delicious twist to your meal. Click here for some delicious plant-forward recipe inspo!
Shop with a plan
Taking a few steps before your grocery trip can help you save both money and time. Grocery stores are often designed to entice customers with their colorful food displays, ads, and delicious scents, encouraging you to stay longer and spend more on things you might not need—especially if you shop without a plan.
First, check what you already have on hand to avoid double purchasing. I like to take a pantry and fridge inventory at least once a week. This is also a great time for a little clean-up and organization. Second, plan out your weekly meals using items you already have and note what you need to stock up on.
This strategy can reduce the number of grocery trips you need to make, help you stick to your budget, and lead to more efficient weekly meal prepping.
Grab my FREE Digital Grocery and Meal Planner here to get you started with smart grocery planning!
Hungry for more information ? Check out my previous posts below
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