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Getting my groceries delivered is one of the best things I’ve done for my budget. I’m less likely to be tempted by shelf displays pushing new and exciting cheeses, desserts, or introductory offers. I don’t burn fuel driving there and back (the nearest big store is 7 or 8 miles away). Plus, I can strategize about groceries in peace, planning meals in my head as I add to the cart. It works.
But even with a tried-and-tested system in place, groceries still cost more than they used to. With future fuel and food prices looking … uncertain, it’s easy to see things getting tighter. So whether you shop in-store or switch to deliveries, there are more ways to trim the spend.
Today, health coach Brooke Feehan shares some tips to keep your grocery bill in check. |
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Let’s start saving,
Tim Snaith
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |
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Written by Tim Snaith
April 2, 2026 • 3 min read |
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| Q: |
What can I do to spend less money on groceries? |
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| A: |
Let’s be honest. Groceries these days are getting pricey, and it can be tough to prioritize healthy meals while sticking to a budget. If you’re anything like me and each trip to the store feels more expensive than the last, then here are some tips to help you shop within your means!
🏪 Shop sales: Many grocery stores run weekly sales, so looking at online coupons and print ads can help you save money in the long run. You can save even more if you’re a rewards member at certain stores. Pro tip: most rewards memberships are free!
🔍 Shop around: It’s OK — and often necessary — to stop at a few different stores to get the best price! Not only do different grocery stores run different sales, but they may have different price markup structures.
🚛 Shop in bulk: Many brands offer lower prices when purchasing bulk items. While the initial cost is higher, you’ll get more product per dollar. Items such as beans, rice, pasta, and oats can all be purchased in bulk to save money! If there is a wholesale store near you like Costco, Sam’s Club, or BJ’s, these stores also offer discounts on bulk items; however, you’ll need to purchase a membership.
❄️ Stock up on frozen: Don’t overlook the freezer aisle! Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at peak ripeness and are just as nutritious as fresh, sometimes more so. They’re usually cheaper, last much longer, and reduce food waste. Berries, mango, pineapple, and mixed vegetables are all great options to keep on hand for smoothies, stir-fries, and quick sides.
📋 Make a list: Walking into a grocery store without a plan can cost you, especially if you’re hungry! Sticking to a shopping list can help you stay focused as you walk the aisles. For my family, we discuss which meals we want for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, check what we already have in the kitchen, and build our list from there. After planning our food, we check the house to see what items need restocking (cleaners, toilet paper, cat litter, etc.). The list usually comes together on Sunday, and we head to the store on Monday!
🌱 Grow a garden: The weather is warming up where I live, and that means it’s time for me and my daughter to plant our garden. Not only is this a fun way to spend time with loved ones, but you can save money by growing your own produce. We try to stick to food we use frequently, like herbs (basil, rosemary, and thyme), tomatoes, and peppers, but the possibilities are endless. If you don’t have a yard, no problem! Many herbs and microgreens can be grown indoors, on the windowsill, or on a balcony.
Buying groceries doesn’t have to feel like a chore when you have a plan. Understandably, not everything will be perfect, and that’s OK! At the end of the day, you know what’s best for you and those who live in your home, and while these tips are helpful, they aren’t an end-all, be-all. It’s more than alright to make adjustments as you go! |
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| Brooke Feehan, MPH, BS, NBC-HWC |
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| Want to learn more about food, diets, cooking, or some other nutrition subject? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com and we’ll look into it for you! (Heads up, we may use your response in an upcoming newsletter.) |
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| Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline’s or Optum Now’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Now are owned by RVO Health. |
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| 🛠️ Buy it for life: products that’ll last for decades. From cast iron skillets to solid wood bed frames, your guide to buying once and buying well. |
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| Until next time, |
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Take care of yourself, and we’ll see
you again soon! |
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| This edition was powered by |
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