Eight Tips to Save Money at the Grocery Store

Most families I know have to be conscious about money, and specifically their grocery budget. It’s a common misconception that all healthy foods are expensive. Of course, foods marketed as “health” foods are likely to be more expensive. They want you to buy their (expensive) product! But you don’t have to buy organic, non-GMO, grassfed, free-range foods to be healthy. For many, like me, many of those foods don’t fit in the budget. No mom-guilt here though! I’ve learned to feed my family nutritious foods without breaking the bank.

Here’s my top tips:

1. Shop the sales. Before you meal plan or shop, do a quick search on your favorite grocery store’s app or advertisements to see what’s on sale. Take note of the options and see if you can incorporate them into your plan.
2. Use coupons or money-saving apps. Kroger (and I’m sure other grocery stores) send coupons in the mail and/or have an app to download coupons to your store savings card. I’m also a fan of the Ibotta app, but be careful to not purchase things you won’t use just because you’ll receive money back.
3. Buy in-season produce. It’s usually cheaper and fresh! Look towards the front of the produce section–that’s where the sales usually are!
4. Take advantage of frozen meats and veggies. They are frozen when fresh, contains lots of nutrients, and often cheaper than fresh (and convenient)! Plus, you may waste less since they last longer in the freezer, compared to fresh meat or veggies.
5. Make a flexible meal plan and prepare a list with other budget-friendly foods (see my list below!)
6. Shop your own house before you go to the store, so you can use what you’ve already got.
7. Stick to the list. Grocery shop online and pick-up if you’d like so you aren’t tempted to buy more than you need.
8. Get creative in the kitchen to use up leftovers and waste less!

11 Budget-Friendly Nutritious Foods

This list provides you with ideas that won’t hurt your wallet, yet still pack a nutrition punch! These are cheap staple foods that I include in my family’s meal plan often, and have on hand to make quick meals.

1. Bananas, apples, oranges. These are easy to find year-round and often less expensive than other produce. You can purchase them by the bag, which can save you more money (if you eat them and don’t waste them!). Each of these is high in vitamins and minerals, as well as carbohydrate, giving you the energy you need throughout the day.
2. Carrots. These orange veggies are easy to find all year and take little preparation. A perfect addition to a snack or lunch.
3. Potatoes and sweet potatoes. These are easy to prepare in a variety of ways, and provide plenty of carbohydrate and nutrients cheap.
4. Canned beans. Any kind–black beans, pinto, garbanzo, kidney, etc. Beans are high in protein and fiber, and make a great protein for a Meatless Monday meal!
5. Frozen veggies. For usually around $1 for 4 servings, frozen veggies are an easy budget-friendly way to add more nutrients to your meal. Our family loves steamer-bag veggies!
6. Eggs. High in protein and versatile, eggs can be used at any meal. They are high in B vitamins and choline, too. I’ve found them for as low at $0.44/dozen at Aldi.
7. Oats. Try old fashioned, steel cut, or rolled. Instead of buying oatmeal packets, purchase the large container. I promise, it’s still just as easy and less expensive.
8. Canned fish. Canned tuna or salmon is a great way to add protein and healthy fats to meals. I love them for a quick lunch by adding them to a salad.
9. Brown rice. An inexpensive starch, with lots of vitamins and fiber. Try adding it to your veggies and meat as a stir-fry, or in a soup.
10. Greek yogurt. Yogurt is packed with protein, calcium, and vitamin D, and an easy way to help you feel satisfied at meals. Try it in a smoothie or with fruit and nuts. It’s also a great substitute for sour cream!
11. Peanuts and peanut butter. Peanuts are a very inexpensive nut, and a great source of healthy fats and protein. Spread peanut butter on toast, crackers, or use peanuts in a trail mix.

The above foods are all foods you can generally keep on hand, and mix-and-match to make meals.

What nutritious and inexpensive foods do you buy most often?

Be sure to follow me on Instagram @busy.mom.nutrition to see more budget-friendly food ideas for your family!