You can find a Good Housekeeping editor at the grocery store almost every day of the year. Whether it’s a recipe developer picking up ingredients for weeknight dinners, a food stylist selecting the perfect produce for a photoshoot, or a kitchen appliance analyst testing toasters with loaves of bread, the team has plenty of reasons to be at the store. With both professional and personal needs driving their visits, the team has gained extensive experience navigating the aisles and hunting for good deals. In today’s high-priced grocery market, having a strategy is crucial to avoid overspending.
To cut costs, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes while shopping. Shopping on an empty stomach can lead to impulse buys driven by hunger and cravings. To combat this, make sure to eat before heading to the store. Additionally, going in without a list can result in overspending due to persuasive store layouts designed to tempt shoppers into purchasing more than planned. Coming prepared with a categorized shopping list can help you stay focused and avoid distractions.
Having a flexible list is important too, as being too rigid can cause you to miss out on sales and discounts. By allowing flexibility in your meal planning, such as choosing protein and veg options based on what’s on sale at the store, you can take advantage of cost-saving opportunities.
Lastly, before creating a meal plan and a shopping list, it’s crucial to shop your kitchen first to avoid unnecessary duplicate purchases. By taking inventory of what you already have at home and incorporating those ingredients into your meal planning, you can save money and reduce food waste.
If you find an extra carton of Greek yogurt in the fridge, consider adding protein-packed pancakes and air fryer fish taco bowls to this week’s meal plan. When shopping, it’s important to pay attention to unit prices rather than just the purchase price to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Calculate the cost per standard unit of measurement (such as ounces or grams) to compare prices accurately. For example, if brand A costs $4 for 8 ounces and brand B costs $6 for 16 ounces, brand B is the better financial choice at nearly 13 cents less per ounce. Most stores display the cost per unit on the price tag to make this comparison easier.
When buying in bulk, remember that not everything is meant to be purchased in large quantities. Analyze your consumption habits to avoid wasting food that may go bad before you can use it all. Consider sharing bulk purchases with a friend to save money without overbuying.
To save more money, explore shopping at different stores to compare prices and consider trying store-brand items, which can be high-quality and more affordable. Look for deals and discounts before making your shopping list to plan your meals and save money by taking advantage of sales.
Explore grocery store apps and sign up for free memberships to unlock exclusive savings. For example, Amazon Prime members enjoy special deals at Whole Foods. Many other grocery stores offer customer appreciation discounts at specific times, while some have designated senior discount days with discounts off purchases.
Choosing the right produce is essential for saving money. While pre-cut vegetables offer convenience, handling the prep work yourself can be more cost-effective. Opt for seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables for better value. Another tip is to consider the freezer aisle, where flash-frozen produce can be just as nutritious as fresh options. Avoid purchasing containers of pre-cut produce; instead, set aside time to prepare whole produce immediately after shopping.
Efficiently unpacking your groceries is crucial to avoid food waste and save money. Organize your pantry, fridge, and freezer following the first-in, first-out rule to use older items before newer ones. Store highly perishable items visibly to prevent them from being forgotten and wasted. Properly store potatoes, onions, and garlic in a dry, dark, cool place, and utilize the crisper drawer in your fridge for fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Regularly check on your groceries throughout the week to prioritize using items that are close to expiration, ensuring you make the most of your purchases.
Remember, your grocery savings only truly benefit you if you utilize all the food you buy. Implementing these tips can help you save money and reduce food waste, ultimately improving your overall shopping experience.
Additionally, consider these helpful resources to enhance your grocery shopping and meal preparation:
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By incorporating these strategies into your grocery shopping routine, you can make more informed choices, save money, and enjoy a more efficient and sustainable approach to food consumption.
