Here are eleven tips to help you maximize your trip to the grocery store. See how these eleven steps can maximize your health, wallet, and time.
1. Read nutrition labels. Be aware of sneaky ingredients that go by different names. When there’s more than one food choice, compare nutrition labels. Choose the item with the lowest amounts of sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugars.
Pro tip: Ingredients are always listed in order of quantity.
Other names you might see for:
- Trans fats: hydrogenated oil
- Salt: sodium benzoate, disodium or monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Sugar: high-fructose corn syrup or corn syrup, agave nectar, barley malt syrup, dehydrated cane juice, dextrose, maltose, or molass
2. Calculate the unit price. Unit price shows you the cost per ounce, pound, or another unit. By using this information, you can compare different brands and different sizes to find the best value for your money.
3. Check expiration dates. Always check the product for the expiration date. Expiration dates are typically listed on the bottom or side of the product. Buy food that won’t expire before you have time to use it. If you don't use it before the expiration date you may freeze it.
4. Limit pre-packaged foods. Buying pre-made or ready-to-eat food can seem like a way to save time, but sometimes convenient items like those have undesirable ingredients, are less fresh, and are more expensive than preparing them at home.
5. Go in with a list. Making a list saves you time and dollars. Want to learn more?
6. Buy sale items you need. Just because it’s a good deal doesn’t mean you should buy it. Would you normally buy this item? If yes, then buying one of these items might be worth a try. But if the sale means you have to buy multiple or buy in bulk, you should probably pass. Ask yourself, “Can I use all of it before it spoils?” If not, a sale might not be enough reason to make the purchase. Buy discounted items that are good for you and you know you’ll eat.
7. Buy in-season produce. Buying produce out of season is typically lower quality and more expensive because it had to be shipped long distances. Save your dollars and buy in-season produce.
8. Buy generic. Your brand loyalty could be breaking your budget. There are several generic products that are just as good, yet less expensive. Try buying a different, cheaper brand next time and see if you can tell a difference!
9. Scan the entire row. Most grocery stores put the most expensive items at eye-level, so their customers don’t have to bend down or reach for a product. Scan the entire section to get the best deal.
10. Avoid shopping with an empty stomach. You are more likely to shop outside of your grocery list and forget all of these helpful tips if your stomach is doing the shopping, not your brain. Eat a snack before you hit the store or purchase a piece of fruit or string cheese when you get there.
11. Buy what fits your budget. Just because it’s more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better for you. Keep in mind it’s most important to buy food that’s healthy.
For more tips on how to stress less about mealtime and shopping, go to: https://thedishrealtalk.com