The other day, I went grocery shopping and was shocked to find that four avocados cost $12. While I understand that food and gas prices have risen, this seemed outrageous to me. I ended up putting the avocados back because I couldn’t justify the expense.
We’re all feeling the pinch from rising grocery costs, and today, I want to share some tips on how to shop on a budget while still getting what you need (except for avocados!). Before diving into those tips, it’s important to mention that growing your own food is the best way to save money. Not only does it cut costs, but it’s also environmentally friendly and connects you to nature.
Personally, I love growing sprouts and herbs at home. Mung beans are my favorite; when you sprout them, they are rich in B vitamins and protein. Kale is also incredibly resilient. Last summer, I grew plenty of kale along with six tomato plants. Green beans, snap peas, and squash are easy to grow here in Ontario where I live.
Of course, not everyone is into gardening, or perhaps you’re limited to a small space like a windowsill herb garden, which is still a great start. But you’ll need more than just herbs for a complete meal. Here are six tips to help you shop on a budget:
1. **Buy in Bulk:** Packaging can make up a significant portion of the cost—sometimes 15-20%. Bulk purchasing items like flour, grains, nuts, and seeds is much more economical than buying pre-packaged versions. Plus, many stores allow you to bring your own containers, which is better for the environment.
2. **Buy Supersize:** This is when “supersize” actually benefits your health! Large bags of carrots or potatoes last a long time when stored properly, saving you money. For meats, consider buying whole chickens instead of just breasts or thighs. Stores also sell large jars of coconut oil and nut butter, which can be more cost-effective.
3. **Make Your Own Food:** Some foods, like granola, can be pricey when purchased pre-made. Making your own is often cheaper and allows you to use high-quality ingredients. Try making your own granola or baked goods at home.
4. **Choose Local Greenhouse Produce:** Greenhouse-grown foods generally use fewer chemicals than non-organic options. I often buy greenhouse-grown strawberries and cucumbers as they are cheaper and support the local economy.
5. **Shop Seasonally:** Buying produce in season is often cheaper and tastier. In Ontario, the best time for local produce is spring through fall, and farmers’ markets are a great place to find fresh, seasonal produce at lower prices.
6. **Try Different Grocery Stores:** If you live in a city with various grocery options, take the time to compare prices. I now split my shopping between a local health food store and a discount grocery store, which has helped me reduce costs.
7. **Visit Farmers’ Markets:** While prices at markets can vary, they are often worth the trip. Some offer produce at a great price, and a bit of travel can lead to significant savings.
I hope these tips help you enjoy more fresh, healthy foods without breaking the bank. Do you have any other budget-friendly shopping tips? Feel free to share them in the comments!
Have a wonderful day,
Joy
Thank you for these helpful tips! I’m excited to try out some of your recipes!
