Many of us are searching for cheaper options and buying less at the grocery store as prices keep getting higher. However, there are still ways to stay nourished, keep your family healthy, AND save on your grocery bill.
Here are a few things you can do to get the most out of your next shopping trip:
- Create a Grocery Game Plan
Go into the store with a plan. Save money by taking a look at what healthy items you already have and making a list of other foods and ingredients you need to make a full meal. Write down exactly what you need for recipes you’d like to try. Create a meal plan and try to incorporate fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy into your meals and snacks. Organize your list by grocery store section and stay focused.
- Buy Canned
Canned and frozen fruits and vegetables are usually cheaper than fresh produce and can be stored for long periods of time. Plus, because they are picked at peak ripeness and canned/frozen right away, they often contain just as many vitamins and minerals as fresh produce.
Canned Food Shopping Tips:
• Choose frozen options without sauce or look for packaging that reads “lightly sauced” to avoid extra sugar, salt, and empty calories.
• Skip frozen options that have added butter or cream sauces.
• Look for canned vegetables marked “low sodium” or “no salt added.”
• Look for canned fruit in water, 100% fruit juice, or it’s own juices to avoid added sugars.
- Buy Produce In-Season
Buying fresh produce that is in season has several advantages. It tends to be cheaper because there’s more available and it doesn’t have to travel far to get to our local grocery store. It also tastes better and will stay fresher longer! Asparagus, avocadoes, bananas, and celery are just a few spring fruits and veggies in season right now. You can visit the USDA’s Seasonal Produce Guide for a list of produce that is in season.
- Coupons & Cash-Back Apps
Coupons and apps are a great way to save money. Just by using five 50-cents-off coupons a week, you can end up saving over $100 each year. However, be mindful of the small print. Some coupons require you to buy multiple items to get savings, which could end up costing you more than just buying one item at full price. You can also browse apps on your smart device that are designed to give you cash back after you shop.
- Get Help
Help is available through the many community resources in our area. Visit CommunityFirstResources.com, enter your zip code, and click “Food.” Here you’ll find resources for emergency food, local food pantries, help paying for food, and more. Community First Food Pantries located throughout Bexar County also provide food and other essential items and most are available 24/7. SNAP and WIC can help people with little or no money who are in need. You can find out if you qualify for these programs at YourTexasBenefits.com.
Community First is here to provide you with resources, information, and guidance to help you and your family stay healthy, eat well, and save money. Visit our blog often, as we are always posting new, relatable content for our Members and the community.
DID YOU KNOW?
Nourishment is more than just eating enough food, it’s eating the right kinds of food to help your body stay healthy. When you’re well-nourished, you’re eating foods that have the vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins you need to feel your very best.
Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/healthy-eating-budget.html