You’re not alone if spending and budgeting have been at the forefront of your thoughts these days. To get some more ideas about how to save money on healthy foods, we consulted some of the most shopping-savvy consumers we know—our readers! Here, a few of our favorite suggestions.
For me a great way to save money on healthy staples is to shop at ethnic grocery stores. Asian groceries usually have bargains on brown rice, tofu, noodles, and specialty condiments. Mexican and Middle Eastern stores are good for spices, beans, lentils, and grains. Often these stores sell items at a fraction of the price, because they sell them in bulk and have a much higher demand for them. At my local Asian grocery, packages of tofu are $.99, as opposed to more than $2 at regular grocery stores. For me and my vegetarian boyfriend, these savings really add up!
Sarah N., 25, Minneapolis, MN
Search: Find ethnic grocery stores
I'm grateful to live in an area where the climate allows for farmers’ markets year-round. I take advantage of produce that’s in season at the time, stock up, and freeze what I can. This helps my budget because farmers’ market prices are generally lower than those at other food stores, and I'm able to make use of alternative-season fruits and vegetables throughout the year. It also feels good to support local produce growers!
Emily D., 28, Santa Monica, CA
Make good use of farmers’ markets
I just joined Weight Watchers and have learned the power of portion control. I’ve also learned that I can eat healthy, organic, fresh, and local, and still stay on budget by eating smaller portions. In the past, I would buy the cheapest (and sometimes unhealthy) options in order to afford my appetite. Now I can spend a little more and eat less, and am able to eat high-quality food. I love my new plan!
Kelley W., 26, New York, NY
Video: What’s the right portion?
I choose cheaper versions of protein. When I cannot afford organic, free-range chicken or fresh wild fish, or even nuts, I go for beans and lentils and quinoa. I also eat peanut butter and low-fat dairy for protein. I refuse to buy subpar produce, so I buy small quantities of the good stuff more frequently so it doesn't go bad before I get around to eating it.
Susan G., via Facebook
Put cheap lean meats in your food processor to make your own ground version. Go to the bulk section of a health-food store and buy TVP, an inexpensive dried soy protein that can be added to anything and takes on the flavor. I make taco meat with half beef and half TVP. No one knows!
Heather D., via Facebook
Related: Learn to make simple, satisfying meals, all under 400 calories!
I stock up on frozen fruits and veggies (they last for a long time and are great for parfaits or frozen treats) and beans (they can be frozen, are filling, and easy to prepare in bulk). Our soda replacement is LaCroix Water, which contains no calories or sodium, and you can buy in 12-packs at Target. My favorite flavor is coconut.
Candace S., via Facebook
I make my own protein bars instead of buying them!
Jamie C., via Facebook
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Don't buy your produce from the supermarket, if you can help it. You’ll get a much better deal at farmers’ and produce markets!
Lori T., 37, Concord CA
I get the week’s sales from different grocery stores, cut coupons, and upload e-coupons to my store saving cards.
Anna A., via Facebook
Up next: 5 Healthy Meals Under $5
