Groceries make up a significant part of any household’s budget. If you’re looking for ways to save money on your food, then here are some handy tips to keep in mind while you shop.

Rising food prices are causing many people to rethink how they shop for groceries. Thankfully, there are some strategies you can use to offset the increased cost so that you can continue buying good food for your family and keep some room in the budget for everyone’s favourite treats.

Make a List

Making a list is the best way to ensure that you leave the store with only what you need and what you have the budget for. Buying items that you don’t need or that you don’t end up cooking with in the coming week might also lead to more food waste. A list will help keep everything on track.

Look Out for Sales

It always feels good to find a great sale, so look for deals in grocery fliers and ads before you shop to save some extra bucks. Remember, it’s best to only look at sales items on your list or that you know you will use. Just because something is on sale, doesn’t mean you need it!

Compare Unit Prices

Trying to decide between two versions of the same product in different amounts? Compare the unit price to find out which one is actually the better deal. Unit prices are listed as the cost per 100 grams or 100 millilitres. If taste and nutritional quality aren’t a factor, then opt for the cheaper unit price.

Buy in Bulk

As with most types of purchases, buying in bulk is an easy way to get a better deal. If you have room in your budget, opt for bulk versions of the food and products you use regularly. You can buy bulk frozen fruits and veggies to use in recipes, and even meat will keep frozen for as long as six months.

Buy Seasonal Produce

Buying fresh produce in bulk may not be an option, but you can still save money by choosing the fruits and vegetables that are currently in season. Seasonal produce is cheaper, fresher, and better-tasting. It will also help keep your diet fresh and variable.

Buy Generic Store Brands

Many products ask customers to pay more for the label, even when there is little difference between the brand-name and no-name options. While there are times you might prefer the branded option, it’s always worth trying the grocery store brand to see if you like it just as much. Store brands are usually significantly cheaper.

Shop Online

Putting together a grocery order online, either through a web browser or an app, can make it easier to stick to some of these tips. At the click of a button, you can compare unit prices, look for sales, and find store brand alternatives.

Don’t stress when it’s time to look at your grocery receipt. Stick to these basic strategies to help bring down the cost of your food and you’ll see that there are many ways you can save even when prices go up.