Grocery Shopping on a Budget

I don't know about you, but I really hate wasting food. It feels like I am throwing cash in my trash can. Obviously perishable items are bound to go bad and sometimes life gets in the way of using groceries like we initially planned so here are some ways to keep your grocery bill total down...

• Plan - I feel like I am always saying this, but it really determines how successful you are at the grocery store. Try to use similar ingredients in different ways to utilize items that are already on your list.
• Get the Best Price - You can always become a reward member and even earn fuel points (win, win) while saving on your groceries. Most grocery stores have apps now, making it much easier to save coupons. I can go to the app, browse and save coupons right to my reward card. No clipping necessary.
• Compare and Contrast - Do not just compare total price, compare unit price! Unit price is located below the product price. Use this number to compare brands.
• Buy in Bulk - This one does not apply for single person homes, but can make a huge difference for families. Don't forget you can always freeze!
• Buy in Season - Most of the time fruits and vegetables located at the front of the produce section are the varieties in season.
• Go Back to the Basics - Convenience foods like frozen dinners, pre-cut vegetables, and instant grains will cost more than if you make them from scratch.
• Options Always Low on Cost - Items like beans, carrots, greens, potatoes, apples and bananas are lower cost year round.
• Freezer Friendly - This is one I need to work on. I definitely do not utilize my freezer enough. If life gets in the way of your plan, toss the ingredients in the freezer and use a different day.
• Use Leftovers in New Ways - You can always reinvent a new meal from leftovers. For example use baked chicken in a stir fry the next day.

I hope that you can utilize some of these tips to keep your grocery bill a tad lower! Check out my FAQ page if you have any questions about the services provided by Dallas Nutritional Counseling.

Dallas Nutritional Counseling - Grocery Shopping on a Budget