When it comes to saving on food shopping, there are lots of ways you can get the most for your money. With a little forward planning and some thought, you can really make a dent in your grocery bill.
Plan ahead
Create a shopping list and stick to it. Prepare meals that use the same ingredients to reduce the size of your list.
Avoid shopping on an empty stomach as you are more likely to buy more.
Consider supermarket 'own brands'. Supermarket ‘own-brands’ often taste the same as their branded counterpart, but are cheaper.
Buy in bulk if you can. Buying foods in bulk can help you save money.
Stock up on tinned and dried foods that have a long shelf-life when on special offer.
Reduce convenience foods. Buying foods in their ‘original’ state will save you money. Buy a block of cheese and grate it yourself, and peel and chop vegetables and fruit yourself rather than paying extra for pre-prepared produce.
Reduce waste
Plan out your meals so all your ingredients get used. Freeze any leftovers in freezer bags or plastic containers.
Use foods that go off quicker, such as fresh fish and meat, earlier in the week.
Gather all leftover vegetables at the end of the week and transform it into a tasty soup. Add the vegetables and some stock to a pan (cook until tender if using raw veg ), then blend in a food processor until smooth.
Always check the use-by-date to get the product that will stay fresh the longest.
Go veggie
Have a meat-free day once or twice a week. Replace meat with beans, peas, or lentils. These are cheap to buy and are very nutritious. You can also add beans, peas, or lentils in place of meat in dishes such as curries and casseroles.
Cook from scratch
Eating out is often more expensive. Avoid takeaways; cooking at home is cheaper, and you get to control what goes into your meal.
Beware of offers
Special discounts such as 'half price' or 'buy one get one free' can offer good value, but always take a second look. It is only good value if you actually need the item.
Shop later in the day
Fresh foods are often reduced in price in the supermarket later in the day.
