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Groceries are an essential cost in every household, and often is one of the biggest expenses each week. There are lots of ways you can cut down the expense of grocery items. We have collated twelve tips you can implement to save on your grocery bill every week.

grocery store sales

1. Don't shop when you're hungry

This is probably one you've heard before, but it is essential. If you shop while hungry, you're a lot more likely to disregard your list and stock up on snacks you don't need.

2. Be realistic

It always seems like a good idea to try out a selection of intricate recipes that you found online late one night, but it's unlikely that you will follow through. This means you will have spent a lot of money on specialty ingredients that will sit in your cupboard unused.

grocery shopping generic home brand

3. Buy home brand

Generic brands may not be packaged as nicely, but they can be up to half the price of their branded equivalent. They are often even made in the same factory as the branded version.

4. Write a list

The humble shopping list is often overlooked, but in order to shop most effectively, jot one down before leaving for the shops. Start a habit of recording products as you use them up so you always know what you're looking for when you get to the shop.

5. Plan meals with versatile ingredients

Use ingredients like rice and pasta as a base for your meals. Foods like rice are very versatile and can be used for multiple different dishes. This also means you can cook up a large batch on a Sunday and add it to varied ingredients throughout the week to make different meals.

bulk produce grocery store

6. Buy in bulk

Buying in bulk is a great way to save money, as it is usually cheaper than purchasing smaller packets. The easiest way to compare prices in the supermarket is to check the price tags for the 'cost per 100g'. This will let you determine the cheapest brand and volume to purchase.

7. Shop at the cheapest grocery store

Do some research on the cheapest grocery stores in your area. Usually the smaller stores will be more expensive. You could find yourself saving a large percentage on your bill each week. Another place to look for cheaper produce are your local farmers markets. Shopping at markets can require some extra planning, but it will often save you money, and you will get your hands on fresher ingredients.

8. Learn how to cook

Cooking from scratch will usually be a lot cheaper than buying pre-prepared meals and ingredients. Learn how to make a few staple meals that you and your family enjoy.

loose produce groceries

9. Buy loose produce

While buying fruits and vegetables that are in packages or pre-chopped might be convenient, it is significantly more expensive to shop this way.

10. Don't get sucked in by deals

Stick to your list when shopping, and avoid being sucked into deals along the way. Grocery stores will often have two for one deals, but it is only worth buying if you will use the second. If you think it's going to expire in your fridge, give it a miss.

snacks cheap grocery store bulk

11. Buy snacks to take on the go

Buying single servings of food on the go from a vending machine, petrol station, or corner store can add up. Stock up on bulk packets of snack food you can take to work and other outings so you're always prepared.

12. Clean out your fridge and pantry regularly

Keeping regular stock of what you have and what you are throwing away will mean you are buying less of what you don't use. It will also help you avoid buying items that you already have. And, as a bonus, you won't have to deal with those mysterious containers of food that have been sitting around for months!

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