This way you shop a lot cheaper in the supermarket
How do you ensure that you get enough healthy products for as little money as possible? Seven simple saving tips.
What can you pay attention to if you can or do not want to spend a lot of money on your groceries? You probably already knew that you can go to the market at the end of the day for cheap fruit and vegetables. And you probably also compare the prices in the supermarkets. But do you already know these tips?
1. Swap meat for an egg or legumes
Meat is quite expensive. Therefore, opt more often for legumes such as kidney or white beans, chickpeas and lentils. Legumes are much cheaper and a healthy and sustainable alternative to meat. Eggs and unsalted peanuts are also inexpensive, good meat substitutes. Here you will find an overview of vegetarian recipes.
2. Cut yourself
A whole cauliflower, a bunch of carrots, a net of onions or a bag of potatoes is relatively cheaper than a bag of pre-cut vegetables or a tub of potato slices. The amount is often larger and you can sometimes eat several times. In addition, a whole cabbage or head of lettuce lasts longer than pre-cut vegetables. You don’t have to throw anything away as quickly.
3. Freezer or jar
Some vegetables are cheaper from the freezer. Green peas from the freezer, for example, are much cheaper than fresh ones. And they are just as healthy. Vegetables from jars or cans are often cheaper than fresh vegetables. But salt and/or sugar is often added to this. Therefore, do not take these products too often.
4. Look in the bottom shelves
Look in the store especially in the bottom shelves. Here are the lesser known, often cheaper brands. They usually taste just as good. When comparing prices, it is also smart to look at the quantities. Not every pot or bag of vegetables or beans contains the same amount. This also applies to cans of fish. Many products have a price per kilo, which makes comparison easier.
5. Avoid snacks, sweets, soda and alcohol
Snacks, sweets, soft drinks and alcohol are unhealthy and often quite expensive. For example, if you opt for tap water more often instead of cola or orange, interspersed with tea and coffee, you can save hundreds of euros per year. Snacks such as an apple, a sandwich or handful of unsalted peanuts are also more nutritious, more filling and often cheaper than snacks and sweets.
6. Make a shopping list
If you do your shopping with a shopping list, you are less likely to buy something you don’t need. Research also shows that people who always make a shopping list throw away up to 9 kilograms less food every year. That also saves your wallet.
A handy order for shopping is:
- First, look in your pantry, refrigerator and freezer to see what you still have at home.
- Make a menu for a few days.
- Write on a list what you need and also note the quantities.
7. Watch out for offers
Supermarkets often discount products as the expiration date approaches. See if they fit into your weekly schedule, then you can save money. Only take advantage of offers if they are really useful. Do not be tempted by offers of unhealthy products such as chips, sweets, cookies and cakes.
Could you use some inspiration for a cheap daily menu? Download here for free four daily menus from the budget cookbook Tasty for little from the Nutrition Center.
