- Shop on sale & in season. If the desired produce is out of season, consider frozen or canned versions. Coupons can sometimes further add to your savings (if you want that product in that quantity). Coupons are available electronically (e.g., linked to your store loyalty card), online print at home, paper, & attached to some products.
- Consider buying generic. Certain products are actually made by the same companies. Some generic items may actually healthier (e.g., less salt) than brand name versions. Buying generic can sometimes even be cheaper than a brand name with a coupon.
- Use unit prices to compare different sized packages (usually in small print on the shelf price label). But, only buy what you need. Buying food & letting it go to waste is like throwing away your money.
- Plan ahead. Choose menus based on sale items or, for us less structured, establish a well-stocked pantry. Limit food waste by properly storing items & being creative with leftovers.
- If your sole goal is to save money, avoid convenience foods (e.g., pre-cut veggies or pre-made foods). Cheaper items (e.g., dried beans vs. canned beans or bone-in vs. boneless chicken) often require more time, work, or planning. If you don't have the time, skills, or inclination, you may decide that certain conveniences may be worthwhile.
- Avoid shopping when hungry, distracted, or overwhelmed.
For more tips or elaboration, check out:
- Choose My Plate's Healthy Eating on a Budget
- Good Housekeeping's 10 Time-Saving Commandments of Grocery Shopping
- Divine Caroline's No Coupons Needed: How to Save Money at the Supermarket
- Yahoo Finance's How to Eat for $7 or Less a Day
- EatingWell's 12 Secrets to Spending Less at the Grocery Store
For a nice shopping list template & tips on shopping with kids, check out Eat Smart Move More's Prepare More Meals at Home.
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