Struggling with costly grocery bills? Check out these strategies for economizing at the supermarket
Saving on Groceries Amid Rising Prices: Strategies and Expert Advice
In the face of rising food prices, consumers are becoming more price-conscious when shopping for groceries, according to Stew Leonard Jr., president and CEO of Stew Leonard's Grocery Stores. Here are some effective strategies to help you save money and maintain nutrition without overspending.
1. Meal Planning and Batch Cooking
Planning your meals weekly and cooking large batches on weekends can help reduce eating out, which tends to be more expensive. By repurposing leftovers into new meals, you can stretch your grocery budget further.
2. Stick to a Grocery List
Create a focused shopping list based on your meal plan and avoid impulse buys. This will help you stay within your budget and prevent unnecessary spending.
3. Buy Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal produce tends to be more affordable and fresher. Opting for seasonal fruits and vegetables can help you save money and enjoy the best quality produce.
4. Stock Up on Non-Perishable Staples
Items like beans, rice, pasta, canned goods, and dried herbs are versatile, cost-effective, and help reduce reliance on more expensive pre-cut or pre-made options.
5. Opt for Store Brands
Private-label or generic brands often offer comparable quality at lower prices compared to national brands. Comparing unit prices can reveal the best deals.
6. Use Coupons and Loyalty Programs Strategically
Participate in store loyalty programs and use coupons or digital coupon apps to enhance savings, but do not let coupons dictate your purchases.
7. Buy Fresh Produce in Amounts You Can Consume
To avoid wasting food and money, buy smaller amounts of fresh produce and prioritise using perishables according to your meal plan.
8. Avoid Shopping When Hungry
Shopping on an empty stomach can lead to unnecessary impulse purchases.
9. Manage Expectations and Set Priorities
Being upfront about budget constraints with family members can help in making cost-conscious choices and reducing unnecessary spending on treats or name-brand products.
These strategies reflect the recommendations of experts and research on coping with food price inflation. Rising food prices are influenced by factors such as tariffs, weather, and supply chain issues, making these money-saving tactics important for consumers trying to maintain nutrition without overspending.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of food at home increased by 2.2% in July compared to the previous year. Fresh vegetables in July were slightly less expensive than last year, and fresh fruits are up only 1.3%. However, prices for products like beef and coffee are rising due to supply issues or the impact of tariffs.
Stew Leonard's customers are buying the store's private label more and more frequently. The Food Industry Association found that customers on Stew Leonard's app can accrue points for these rewards. Stew Leonard's recommends buying whole fruits and vegetables and cutting them yourself to save money.
The USDA recommends storing frozen food at 0°F. Meat is 5.8% more expensive than one year ago, according to the BLS. Stew Leonard Jr. warned that the price of food for the holidays could be determined next month.
Consumer demand for store brands (private labels) is driving sales at retail giants like Walmart and Kroger. Leonard recommended looking for sales on more expensive items, like steak, and then freezing them for later use. Stew Leonard Jr. mentioned that he hasn't had to raise prices at his stores yet, but supplies are running low.
More than 80% of American adults cite the cost of groceries as a source of stress, according to a poll by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Stew Leonard Jr. shared tips on how to save money when shopping for food, including buying on sale and freezing for later. Stew Leonard's has been able to hold off on raising prices due to tariffs, but this could change.
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