Plan your meals. This will help you to avoid impulse purchasing and in the long-term through waste.
Use a grocery list. Stick to your list in order to avoid overspending and make sure you buy everything you need.
Shop in season. Seasonal fruits and vegetables usually provide better value both in terms of price and nutrients.
Buy frozen and canned produce. These options can often be less expensive and still provide vital nutrients.
Compare prices. Use online grocery apps or visit multiple stores to find the best deals.
Use grocery store loyalty programs. These programs offer discounts, rewards, and exclusive coupons.
Cooking at Home
Cook in bulk. This will save you time and money, especially if you can freeze leftovers for later use.
Use a slow cooker or pressure cooker. These allow for long, gentle cooking times, making less expensive cuts of meat yield tender and juicy meals.
Make your own sauces and dressings. They are usually waaaaaay cheaper and healthier than store-bought.
Work with beans, lentils, and whole grains. These are quite cheap sources of protein and fiber.
Grow your own herbs and vegetables A small garden provides you access to fresh produce with almost no cost.
Eating Out
Go for budget restaurants. Check out those that offer value meals or a different lunch menu.
Share entrees. Order one entree and share between two or more people.
Bring your own drinks. Most restaurants allow you to bring in non-alcoholic beverages free of charge.
Take advantage of online coupons and discounts. Use online search engines to search for dining coupons, or promo codes and loyalty programs.
Shopping Tips for Different Types of Food
Fruits and Vegetables: Buy frozen or canned, shop at farmers’ markets, or consider a produce box subscription.
Protein: Go for lean cuts of meat, usually meats bought in bulk can be put in freezers, and consider plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and tofu.
Dairy: Use 2% fat or skim milk, buy cheese in bulk, and powdered milk is great for baking.
Grains: Buy whole grain bread and pasta, and brown rice instead of white rice-so many extra vitamins and fiber.
Snacks: Buy unsalted nuts, seeds, air-popped popcorn, or fruit instead of processed snacks.
