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7 IDEAS TO SAVE MONEY ON GROCERIES.
Do you also feel like food and other essential items cost more every time you visit the grocery store? I’m sure I cannot be the only one feeling that way. Are you looking for ideas to save money on groceries?
Food prices are soaring in many countries worldwide, not only in South Africa (where I live). The prices have increased in the last year, from chicken to tinned food. However, you can spend less and planning and be creative with the meals you cook can help you save money on groceries.
Here are ideas to save money on groceries.
1. CHECK YOUR GROCIES BEFORE YOU NEED TO DO A BIG SHOP.
Before I do a big shop, which is usually toward month’s end, I cup through my kitchen cupboards and fridge/freezer and see what food I have left.
I make a detailed list of what I need and do not need to buy. After I have completed the list, I go through the the pamphlets showing what specials the different supermarkets have for the week. I also checked online just in case the pamphlets missed something.
Now I know what groceries I must buy for the month, I go through the pamphlets and look for the food items I need that are on sale. Special. It may sound tedious, but this way, you can buy what you need and do so when it is on special.
Write down a list or type it out and stick to it when shopping.
2. GO EARLY IN THE MORNING.
Make sure you have a meal before you go shopping. You may be tempted to buy food while you are shopping. I always eat before I go shopping.
Going early in the morning may not suit everyone, but this works best for me. If I go later, most of the specials will already be sold out. And I find it easier to shop when the shop is quieter. Fewer people are bumping into you with their shopping trollies.
As you do your shopping, tick items off the list.
3. CHECK ITEMS BEING SCANNED AT THE TILLS.
I always check the items as they are being scanned at the till. The reason is that I often find an item on special, but at the till, it is scanned at the normal price. And always check your till slip.
4. USE DISCOUNT AND CASHBACK APPS.
Remember to use your cashback and discount cards/apps if you have them. Loyalty cards also help you save money. Find out which cards/apps are most recommended in your country. Read reviews online to find out more.
5. PLAN YOUR MONTHLY MEALS.
Okay, this may sound like lots of work, but it can save you lots of money.
Go through your cupboards and fridges/freezer to plan your monthly meals. Sit down and carefully plan the meals for the month. I asked my kids and partner what meals they enjoy most.
I do freeze certain meals, but there are so many meals you can whip up in no time. Macaroni and cheese freezes well. Lasagna also freezes well. Carrots and potatoes don’t freeze well and tend to go mushy.
6. BUY FRUIT AND VEGTABLES THAT ARE IN SEASON.
When you draw up your shopping list, buying fruit and vegetables that are in season is important. Plan our monthly meals around these.
7. EAT LESS MEAT.
Try to eat less red meat if you can. I only eat red meat once or twice a week. The other meals are chicken or fish. Bacon is a good alternative. I fry bacon with onion and spud with some seasoning and herbs like garlic and ginger. Add veggies like peas, green peppers and mushrooms.
If you must eat red meat, add more veggies to the meal.
CONCLUSION: IDEAS TO SAVE MONEY ON GROCERIES.
Take steps to save money on your groceries that you can do. Start with small steps like eating less meat. Lentils and beans are great meat alternatives. You can stock up on tinned beans or make buy beans and bulk cook the beans at home. Bacon and beans are a tasty meal you can add some garlic and onions.
Try not to cook every day. This can help you save on your gas and electricity bills. I try and cook meals that the family will eat for two or more days.
I hope you have found this post informative and useful.
If you have please remember to share it with your family and friends! Thank you.😊
