Save
Money with Smart Food Shopping
Before You Go
In these economic times we are all looking to save money, but
planning your grocery shopping can also help you save time and eat
healthier too!
• So, schedule yourself time to plan.
• Use tools like My Pyramid as a guide.
• Make a list of meal ideas for the week. Don’t forget about the
days you’ll be in a rush and don’t have time to cook!
• Plan the evening meal first and use plan-overs (leftovers)
for lunch!
• Look at your store’s ad and available coupons for things you plan
to buy.
• Then, make your grocery list. You may want to plan in some
flexibility. Things change!
At the Store
 •
Most importantly – Use Your List!
• Shop when you have time and the store isn’t crowded (good luck
here).
• Try to shop just once a week at stores that usually have the
lowest prices.
• Limit your distractions like children and cell phones.
• Shop when you’re not hungry, or else you may impulse buy!
• Also compare the cost of convenience. Usually the more “ready to
eat” the product is the more expensive it is also.
• Buy your “staples” (things you always use) when they are on sale.
• Comparing the “unit” price can really save dollars.
• Look for BOGO… “Buy one, get one free” specials.
• Don’t linger in the middle of the store. By limiting yourself to
the perimeter, you’ll get all the unprocessed basics you need –
produce, dairy, meat, bread and avoid the inner aisles that have
expensive more processed foods.
Making Comparisons
The “unit” price is usually shown on a shelf sticker just below the
product.
Unit Price
13.86¢ per
oz
Toasted Oats |
Price
$4.99
36 oz |
The unit price is the cost of the item per ounce or other unit of
measure. The product with the lowest unit price IS the best buy, if
it meets your other needs. It allows you to compare the cost of
different size packages of the same item, as well as the cost of
competing brands. It will even allow you to compare the cost
difference of different forms of the same item (fresh, canned and
frozen carrots, for example). Give store brands a try. They usually
have a lower unit price and taste as good as the national brands.
What ideas will you use to save money at the
store?
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