Call me crazy, but grocery shopping is one of my favorite activities. There is something about all the beautiful colors of produce, the clattering sound of shopping carts and possibilities of amazing meals. Most people don’t have this same positive view of the grocery store, mostly because they view it as a place that takes away their money and leaves them ingredients instead of a meal. Grocery shopping doesn’t have to be exhausting, expensive or time consuming with these simple tips.
1. Shop the perimeter of the store to avoid processed food.
Most people think that buying fresh produce is more expensive than buying packaged food or fast food, but this could not be further from the truth. Some of the least expensive items are from the produce section; potatoes, vegetables, rice and pasta require little preparation and provide plenty of leftovers.
2. Look for deals and sale items.
Most times, you can find products buy one get one free or reduced price if you look hard enough. Even though it is usually a couple of cents off, it really adds up in the long run.
3. Buy store brand when you can.
Although there are some brand items that you can’t part with, sticking to the basic items like staple baking supplies, condiments, nuts, etc. can really save you lots. How much different can one natural, raw ingredient like frozen corn be from another brand?
4. Make sure to check the quantity of a product.
Before you snatch items that look like a great discount, be sure to check how much product you are getting for the price. A bag of discounted spinach could be just as expensive as a regular priced bag because there is less quantity per price in the bag. It may take you a little time to scan for the information, but it’s worth it.
5. Freeze your produce if it starts to spoil.
One of my favorite things to do with bananas that are going a little brown is to peel them, put them in a plastic bag and stick them in the freezer. You can then use them in smoothies or put them in a blender and watch in amazement as they blend and turn into an ice cream texture. Just top it with chocolate chips or granola for a fun treat.
6. Go meatless for a couple meals a week.
Whole plant-based foods are some of the healthiest, purest things that you can put into your body, and they are some of the least expensive items in the store. Rice, legumes, lentils, oats, vegetables and fruits that are in season are incredibly low in price and surprisingly full of protein and fiber.
7. Let yourself buy “fun” purchases each week.
When you are making healthy, inexpensive purchases each week, it’s okay to pick up your favorite ice cream or other treat. Life is about balance, and you can’t go through life without ice cream – you just can’t.
8. Keep a running total of how much you are spending as you shop.
The part of grocery shopping that most people hate is going to check out and watching the total rise way beyond what you expected. Have your phone out as you put items in your cart so you are more aware of where your money is going and what items you spend the most on each week.
9. Get a rewards card wherever you shop.
Most grocery stores have rewards cards that give you a store discount for items as well as coupons for a discount for future purchases. It is always pretty cool to see the total go down in costs after scanning your rewards card.
10. Avoid buying pre-made food.
It is tempting to buy the ready-made dinners and side dishes but stay away from them. For one, you have no real idea of the nutritional value or what exactly went into making it, but you also could definitely make the same dish for a lot less money.
Take a deep breath and walk through those air-conditioned aisles with confidence. Happy grocery shopping!
