When you’re trying to cut back on monthly costs, the quickest way to make a dent in your spending is by starting in the kitchen. Grocery shopping has a way of making or breaking your budget for the month. If you don’t plan ahead, you’ll find yourself spending even more on carryout and restaurant tabs.

Keep yourself from overspending with these simple tips for saving money when buying groceries.

1. Stick to the Grocery List

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when trying to budget for groceries is going rogue from your grocery list. Plan out your recipes for each week and stick to that plan. Avoid going down aisles that don’t contain items from your list to prevent yourself from grabbing nonessentials.

When you stick to the grocery list, you buy only the exact amount of ingredients needed for the recipes you have planned out. Cross off the items as you grab them and move down your checklist.

2. Reduce Wasted Produce

Fresh produce can definitely be moody. One day it’s fresh and the next it’s wilted. Not only is throwing out unused produce wasteful, but it really takes a hit on your grocery spending over time.

If you’re having issues keeping up with your fresh cut produce before it spoils, you can reduce waste with our NatureSeal Produce Extender Packets. Made from a simple blend of allergen-free vitamins and minerals, the solution helps inhibit browning of avocado and guacamole, apples, carrots, celery, peaches and pears without altering the natural flavor.

Eat Healthy. Save Money. Simple.

Picture provided by Designer Trapped In a Lawyer's Body.

3. Plan Recipes That Share Ingredients

Ever buy a bag of baby spinach only to have half of it wilted by the end of the week? By choosing recipes that overlap with similar ingredients, you can buy larger quantities to save some cash. You’ll make sure that every bit of that purchase is used and not ending up in the trash.

Just pay attention to products that expire quicker than others and plan those meals at the beginning of the week.

4. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

When bought in season, fresh fruits and vegetables can be CHEAP. Align your recipes with this Monthly Produce in Season cheat sheet to make sure you’re never overspending each month.

One way to start eating more vegetable heavy meals is to participate in Meatless Mondays. There are so many vegetarian and vegan friendly recipes out there to get inspiration from, so getting started doesn’t have to be intimidating.

5. Grow your Own Vegetables

Want fresh vegetables at the ready without the trip to the grocery store? Why not test your green thumb out and grow some of your favorites right at home! You can save costs on tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini and so much more by growing your own supply.

If you don’t have the room for growing larger vegetables, one of our favorite DIY grocery hacks is this Indoor Mason Jar Herb Garden. Just place these jars in the sunlight on your kitchen counter, and you’ll have fresh herbs for cooking year-round.

Picture provided by Plant Instructions.

6. Buy Generic Products

Brand named items doesn’t mean better tasting or better quality. Look for the generic versions on your next grocery trip, and you’ll be shocked by how quickly you’ll save.

If you’re looking to save even more, make sure you’re aware of where you can purchase products for cheaper. Grab your veggies at the local farmer’s market and buy the rest of your list at your favorite grocery store. It’s all about finding the best deals at the lowest prices.

7. Look for Coupons and Sales

Oftentimes, there are major sales on meat or produce depending on the weekend. Stock up on items that are on sale if you can, especially bulk meats that can be thrown into the freezer until you’re ready to use it.

Coupons are an easy way to save more off the itemized price. Some grocery stores will even apply a multiplier to your coupon depending on the quantity purchased. Check to see if your grocery store offers a loyalty program, where you can stack up rewards for your purchases.

8. Leftovers for Lunch

If you find yourself with leftovers from dinner, be sure to take those meals with you to the office the next day. Leftovers make perfect lunches, and they stop you from making bad choices, like heading to the fast food restaurant down the road.

Think of it this way, if you don’t bring leftovers for lunch, you’re spending extra money AND wasting perfectly good and nutritious food.

We'd love to hear how you save money when buying groceries and making dinner for the week! Tag us in your responses using #NatureSeal on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Any questions about our products? Contact us

See you next time!