6 Ways To Save Money On Groceries,When You’re On a Budget
The cost of living is getting crazy. It’s affecting all of us in so many ways. It can even have a direct effect on the food we buy for our families.Having a grocery budget is so important not just for saving money, but you’ll also save on food waste by buying only the foods you intend to eat.
That said, let’s jump right into this important topic, saving money on groceries!
Here are 6 simple ways you can start saving on healthy groceries, today!
1. Shop seasonal
Strawberries are in season for Spring and Summer
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, you’ll save the most when you buy in season produce. A quick Google search will easily tell you which fruits and veggies are in season at the moment. But since the purpose of this post is to help you out, I’ve done this for you, here you go! This in season produce will also be the freshest since it was recently picked and shipped to your grocery store.
2. Plan your meals, then make a list and stick with it
We’re all guilty of overspending from time to time, and it can be easy to do when at the grocery store, especially when there with kids who tend to ask for anything bright or with their favorite character plastered on the packaging! The best way to stay within budget is to be intentional about what we need, by planning our meals ahead of time, and making a list of what we need. One of the thing that saves me the most time and money is having a rotation of meals that I make on a regular basis. I tend to buy the same proteins, but change up the meals by using different seasonings and sides. Ground meats, like beef, turkey or chicken are a great way to do this. Ground meats also tend to be a very economical way to get your protein as other cuts tends to be more expensive. Here’s an example of three easy meals you can make with ground meats:
Taco Bowls: 1lb. ground meat, season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper if you like heat. Serve with rice, and top with peppers, onions, shredded lettuce, cheese and sour cream.
Chili: 1lb. ground meat, season with the same seasonings as above minus the oregano, add a can of fire roasted tomatoes, black beans, and diced onions. Serve over rice and add whatever toppings you like!
Egg Roll in a Bowl: 1lb. ground meat (ground chicken or turkey is better for this recipe but I’m sure beef would work too) salt, ground ginger, onion powder, fresh garlic, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), freshly chopped onion, red pepper, and shredded cabbage and carrots. Add fresh cilantro and red pepper flakes to top. Serve with rice or noodles!
Need more meal inspiration? Download my FREE meal guide, packed with 25 affordable and super easy to make recipes.
3. When choosing organic, only buy from the dirty dozen
I know not everyone buys organic, but if you choose to, a great way to save is by buying conventional produce under the clean 15, and only organic if it’s on the dirty dozen list. These are fruits and vegetables that tend to have the most pesticide residue. It changes every year, so if you’re reading this after 2023, check out the Enviornmental Working Groups website for the most up to date list.
Source: The Enviornmental Working Group. Screenshot this and save for later :)
4. Buy frozen
Buying frozen fruits and vegetables are not only cheaper, but you can stock your freezer with them so you always have them available. Frozen fruit is great for smoothies while the veggies are great for roasting or to add to soups and stews.
5. Shop Around
This may take a bit of trial and error, but I find the best way to save on groceries is to shop for specific items at different stores. Where I chose to get veggies, may be a different store than where I get snacks, meat and so on. I’ve noticed that the cost of groceries can vary greatly between stores in my area, so I now know that if I want organic produce, I’ll save $1-$2 if I go to a different store. This may not sound like a lot, but if you have a larger family (we’re a family of 5), it can really make a difference.
6. Buy from online grocery stores like Imperfect Foods
I love this site because they are committed to reducing food waste. Imperfect Foods takes in season organic produce that most grocery stores would discard due to them not looking perfect, (a small scratch, small size, odd shape, discontinued packaging),then sell this produce for a discount. You can choose meat, seafood, dairy, produce, snacks and more! It’s a great way to add variety to your diet and save perfectly good food from being thrown away. Want $20 off your first order? Check out Imperfect Foods here.
In need of some more money saving ideas? Check out this extensive list of ideas from Ramsey Solutions!
