9 RULES FOR SHOPPING ON A BUDGET

​1.​​​​​​​​​​ Have a Plan​

•    Take time to plan your meals for the week.
•    Make a list of things you need.

2. Eat Before You Shop

•    Shopping when you are full will help you avoid impulse buys.

3. Try Generic/Store Brands

•    Many store brands taste exactly like the brand name products without the extra cost.

4. Avoid Waste

•    Buy produce before it is ripe or use frozen produce.
•    Check the “expiration” and “use by” to get the most out of what you buy.

5. Read Labels

•    Buy foods high in fiber and lower in sugar.
•    Choose whole wheat options over regular options (bread, brown rice, pasta, etc)
•    Look for a low-fat option.

6. Spend Less Time in the Store

•    Don’t browse!!!
•    Buy the things you need and avoid things not on your list.

7. Buy in Bulk

•    It is cheaper to buy non perishable items in bulk.
•    Do not forget to include categories for personal hygiene and household products on your grocery list.

8. Choose Lean Varieties of Protein.

•    Turkey and white meat chicken are leaner than red meat/beef.
•    Choose lean ground beef or ground turkey breast.
•    Choose beans, legumes, nuts and low fat dairy.

9. Coupons Save Money!

•    Clip coupons for things that you really need or use. Don’t use coupons for items you never use just because you have a coupon for it.
•    Check out store ads and specials printed in the newspaper.