1. Purchase produce that is in season. Whatever is currently in season tends to be cheaper. Grocery stores have lots of that particular item and put in on sale to sell it quickly. Not only is in season produce sold at a good price, it also tastes the best!
2. Cut back on meats. High ticket items on your grocery bill tend to be poultry, fish and beef. Try making more vegetarian meals – put beans in place of meats. When you do eat meat, try to decrease the portion size and add more vegetables to bulk up the meal.
3. Skip the convenience. Yes, those packs of shredded carrots and other precut veggies are nice, but you can save quite a bit of money by prepping your own vegetables. Make it a habit to spend time right after you grocery shop to wash, chop, and get your produce ready for the week.
4. Portion size at home. 100 calorie packs and other portion sized foods are a great idea, but they are also more expensive. Pick up some Ziplock baggies and when you get home portion out your own food. It just takes a few minutes and helps reduce your grocery bill.
5. Reduce your waste. We’re all guilty of letting produce go bad. There are two approaches to this one: either buy a mix of fresh and frozen produce (eating the fresh first) or make a mid week trip to the store to replenish your produce. Keep your fresh produce where it’s seen. You’ll be more likely to eat it than if it’s hidden in the drawer in the fridge.
