You don’t have to be a coupon-cutter to cut costs at the grocery store. Just try these easy wallet-friendly tricks. Added bonus: You may end up saving some calories, too. —Karen Palmer

1. Follow the seasons. Fruit and vegetables that are in season are less expensive. Get educated on what’s freshest now, and you’ll save some extra cents. Plus, the produce tastes even better when it’s in season (translation: you won’t have to do much to dress it up at home, meaning less ingredients!).

2. Avoid the middle. Not only do the food items in the inner aisles of the supermarket cost more, but they’re typically processed and filled with calories and fat. Just think of how expensive sugary cereals and snack treats can be. Plus, any diet guru will tell you that the foods around the outside of the store are healthier (hint: That’s where the produce section is.).

3. Go generic. For staples, look for the generic or supermarket brands, which tend to be cheaper and taste just as good. Trust us: You won’t be able to tell the difference between a “fancy” can of black beans and one that’s got a plain old generic label slapped on it.

4. Plan your meals before you shop. This will keep you from buying unnecessary ingredients. For instance, if you’ve been craving rotisserie chicken, figure out a few different ways you can use any leftovers during the week (in sandwiches, salads, enchiladas) and buy only the ingredients you need.

5. Bulk up. For items like paper goods, buy the larger sizes, which tend to cost less per sheet. Depending on your living situation, this may or may not work for food items; singletons may end up tossing out rotten food. So be careful what you buy in bulk!

Printer friendly page

Tags: Categories: