Grocery shopping can be expensive at times, but you can save money with some planning without sacrificing the quality of your meals. This blog will provide you with practical tips to help you manage your grocery budget better.

1. Plan your meals: Plan what you will eat and make a shopping list based on your plan. This helps you buy only what you need, and avoid buying extra things that you may not get around to eating and eventually throw away. Check out additional information on meal planning here.

2. Shop smart: Buying in bulk of items that you use more often that don’t spoil quickly can save money over time. Comparing prices through apps or websites at different stores can help you determine stores that may have deals, coupons or loyalty programs.

3. Check expiration dates: First in and first out, place new items behind older ones in your pantry or fridge. This helps you use older items before they expire.

While freezing foods for later, many fruits, vegetables, and meats can be frozen to last longer. Freezing will also help maintain the nutrients with these products. For more information on how to freeze foods, visit “Freezing Foods.”

Discovering local food banks, pantries, and community kitchens can help you find items from your shopping list without needing to purchase them from stores. Visit https://nvsnap-ed.org/tips-resources/helpful-links/ for more resources, tips, and information on community events and activities near you.

In addition, MyPlate offers a “Shop Simple” guide that provides information on local savings, areas that offers rewards and accepts SNAP EBT. As well as tips for buying and preparing budget friendly foods.

Saving money on groceries may take a bit more time and planning. However, by following these tips you can keep your costs down and still enjoy good meals!

This issue was written by Justine Habibian, PhD, RDN