6 Tips for Smart Grocery Shopping at Local Supermarkets

Seniors who want to shop savvy, save money, and make sure they're stocking up on nutritious foods need a plan for grocery shopping. In this article, we'll share six tips for smart shopping that save you money and take advantage of everyday deals in your local supermarket.

1. Make a List and Stick to It

Creating and sticking to a grocery list is one of the most important steps toward saving money. Before you go shopping, plan meals for the week ahead and make a list of all the items needed. Make sure to stick to this list while you're at the store so that impulse purchases don't hurt your budget. Having a plan will help prevent you from buying too much food or buying unhealthy food.

2. Compare Unit Prices

Unit prices are the cost of a product per measurement unit. At grocery stores, this is usually expressed as per ounce, per quart, or per pound. Unit prices are usually found on the shelf next to each item and provide shoppers with an indication of which product offers better value for money. Instead of doing mental math to compare which brand or size is the best buy, you can compare unit prices.

3. Buy in Bulk

Shopping in bulk can save you money if the items are ones that you use regularly and don't expire quickly. Be sure to have a plan for properly storing bulk purchases so that they don't spoil, such as freezing what you don't use and saving it for later. If you buy in bulk and end up throwing excess food away, you'll end up throwing away your cost savings as well.

4. Avoid Ready-to-Eat Foods

Ready-to-eat foods should generally be avoided when grocery shopping. There is usually an upcharge because the food was prepared for you. If you do buy pre-packaged food, check to make sure it isn't too high in sugar and was made with whole ingredients instead of processed foods or unhealthy chemicals.

5. Choose Healthy Foods

Options like fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats offer plenty of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein. These foods are also typically less expensive because you prepare them yourself at home. Buying in-season produce is another great way to save money without compromising on nutrition. Not only is in-season produce typically less expensive, but it also tends to taste better.

6. Compare Prices and Find Discounts

Store websites are the best way to compare prices between local stores. GIANT and Wegmans both show prices on their websites to help you see which is a better deal. You can also view coupons and special offers online. Researching these deals before heading to the store can help you save money on certain products. Store loyalty programs are another great way to access discounts on particular items or gain points that can be redeemed for other discounts throughout the store. There may also be senior discounts available.

Senior Helpers Offers Personalized In-Home Care

Smart grocery shopping is an essential skill for seniors who want to save money and eat healthier. By creating a list and sticking to it, understanding unit prices, buying in-season produce, and taking advantage of coupons and special offers from your local supermarket, seniors can get more bang for their buck. If your senior loved one lives in the Harleysville, Lansdale, Quakertown, or Worcester area, contact Senior Helpers Lansdale. From home safety evaluations and light housekeeping to errands and meal preparation, our trained and qualified caregivers offer a variety of personalized senior services.