Grocery shopping – the routine task that needs to get done; also one which constantly leads to the infamous question, “how did I spend so much?”
Unless you are a savvy coupon shopper, price comparer and perceptive list-maker, it is very likely that you over-spend on groceries. You don’t necessarily need the chocolate chips, but perhaps you will make banana chocolate-chip cookies. Your children don’t need fruit roll-ups but they like them. The recent flyer depicting a great deal on Kleenex has you sold. Sound familiar?
Below are a few techniques that will allow you to expand your budget, save some extra money and spend wisely the next time you make your way to the grocery store.
Who Doesn’t Love Coupons/Deal-Flyers?
Flyers will provide insight into the current or upcoming sales while saving and utilizing coupons will help in cost minimization. You can even go so far as building your grocery list around the coupons and flyers.
The Power of the Grocery List
Keep a list on your fridge of necessities (milk, eggs, bread, snacks, etc.) The list will dictate what you actually require in the grocery store. Impulse buying adds to your bill and you usually get items that you want, but don’t necessarily need. Try to stick to your list!
Meal Prep
It is a great idea to plan out your meals for the week. This way you can make note of everything you need. Not only will you reduce your grocery bill, but homemade meals are often healthier than premade options.
Buy in bulk when on Sale!
Eggs, apples, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, peanut butter, jam, melba toast – these are regularly consumed items in my home and they do not expire quickly. Consider the items that are regularly eaten in your home and then buy them in bulk when they are on sale.
Choices in Label Brands
Consider purchasing the private label brands – Kirkland and President’s Choice. While the products less expensive, they are still delicious. In addition, some of the President’s Choice options will have a Sensible Solution label demonstrating that those items are healthy choices.
‘Tis the Season
Purchase your fresh fruits and veggies when they are in season. The in-season produce are usually less expensive and more delicious! Alternatively, check out local markets (farmer’s markets) and convenience stores that sell fruit in areas like Kensington and Spadina! The fruit is always fresh, delightful and less expensive.
Don’t Over-Buy
We are all guilty of it. The mangoes look good, so you buy six. The bread just came out of the oven, so you purchase three loaves. This normally leads to waste – literally money in the garbage. Buy what you and your family will eat. Be mindful of quantities!
Size Matters
It is always a good idea to compare grams for grams! This was recently brought to my attention! I always go for the Nature’s Path Granola (325 grams for $5.48) until it was brought to my attention that Special K Granola was $3.99 for 385 grams and President’s Choice Organic Granola was $6.49 for 750 grams. Here were two alternatives to my expensive granola purchasing! Compare the sizes and price per unit – the smallest is not the cheapest!
Portion Control
Perhaps this would be a good excuse to improve your diet – decrease snacking and increase your intake of healthy foods. Purchasing whole foods, fruits, vegetables, proteins and grains without all of the extra fluff can be a money-saver in itself!
