Grocery Shopping on a Budget
Market research suggests that most shoppers take only three seconds to
choose various foods in the supermarket, which is hardly enough time to
consider value, nutrition and convenience equally.
10 ways to shop smarter
Planning is key. Before you go to
the store, think about what you will
need to create at least your next
three meals, and make a list.
Avoid impulse buying by sticking to
your shopping list. At the same time,
adjust your ingredients if something
you can substitute is on special.
Shop the perimeter. Supermarkets
tend to stock fresh items and whole
foods around the edges, more highly
processed foods are positioned in
the inner aisles, and profitable junk
food usually sits at eye level.
Buy seasonal produce. Avoid
buying out-of-season produce that
has to be flown in from distant
countries or interstate, and which
attracts premium prices. Local farmers
markets can offer really fresh
fruits and vegetables at good prices.
Compare unit cost. Packaging can
be deceiving. Compare the value of
products by checking prices per 100
grams. Many grocery stores provide
this information on the price label
above or below their products.
Buy store brands. Supermarket and
other private label brands of packaged
foods often provide similar
quality but cost 15 to 20 per cent
less.
Bulk buy to save. If a store near you
has a bulk section, you will save
considerable money by making your
purchases there.
Check weekly specials. Go cherry
picking between stores to take
advantage of what’s on special. For
example, you can stock up on loaves
of bread when they’re on special
and then freeze them. A toaster will
thaw the slices nicely.
Prevent food waste. Buy only what
you need. A huge portion of food
purchased frequently ends up in the
bin. Always check use-by-dates and
place chilled and frozen products in
your shopping trolley last.
Scan food labels. Compare ingredients
and nutritional content to
ensure that you get the best health
value for your dollar.
Click here for a thrifty but
nourishing meal idea.
