One of my friends recently asked me how to eat healthy when you have a small food budget. I realized that a lot of the people who follow me on Facebook are going through the same things I am, so why not share with everyone?
-Read!
I recently purchased a book called America's Cheapest Family Gets You Right On The Money. The authors tell you how they manage to feed and cloth their family of seven while still saving money. While it doesn't talk specifically about health foods, it does provide amazing tips about getting the most out of your money.
-Buy In Season
Produce is going to be more expensive if it is out of season. It is harder to come by, and the transportation and preservation costs show up in the price. Find out when produce is in season here.
-Make A List & Stick To It
This may seem like a simple thing, but I have found myself slipping from time to time. When you make a list, you don't have to worry about other items being on sale, or those impulse buys that end up costing you way more than you intended to spend.
-Shop Around Part 1
Do not buy the first thing you notice in the supermarket. I have noticed that some stores split up their produce so that you see the most expensive items first. Walk through the whole department before touching anything. That way you can see sale prices and compare.
-Shop Around Part 2
I have found that Target and Save-A-Lot have amazing produce departments with decent pricing. I used to shop at Shoprite and Walmart. Shoprite has fresh produce with steep prices, Walmart has limited selection (and not as fresh) for okay prices. This may be different depending on your locality, so shop around, and don't be afraid to buy from a few different stores. It may take a little more time, but the savings will be worth it.
-Shop Sales
Most supermarkets will send sales fliers out every week. LOOK AT THEM. Make your list based off of who has the best prices for each product. Also, invest in coupons. You don't have to be an "extreme couponer" to save money. Many places will allow you to use a coupon even if the item is on sale. Check your local stores for their rules. Here is a video that helps you learn more about couponing. (I love Sara's videos. If you have time, check out some of her other ones, she's awesome)
-Blogs??
There are so many people who have blogs about saving money and eating right. You just have to know where to search. One of my favorites is Blissful and Domestic. She talks about meal planning, couponing, as well as buying in bulk. You can also do a Google search for "saving money blog", "healthy eating blog", etc.
-Buy In Bulk
I highly recommend becoming a member at a wholesale club. You can buy produce in bulk and freeze it or can it to make it last. I buy meat, milk, bread, and freeze it all for later use.
-Shop The Perimeter
Avoid the inner aisles as much as possible. They are loaded with junk and impulse items.
-Search For Recipes
Buy things on sale or in bulk, then find recipes to fit what you have. Don't shop for specific recipes, or you will end up buying stuff for only one meal
-Do Not Indulge a Picky Eater
I know numerous parents who will make separate meals for their family because they don't like certain things. STOP IT!! It's a waste of money, and not helping anyone. My daughter eats what everyone else eats. I try to make things she will enjoy, but if I find something on sale, her butt will eat it. (To be fair, she's only really picky about mushrooms... I fed her EVERYTHING at a young age.)
I hope this list helps at least a little. Please check out the links, they have way more than just shopping advice.
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