How to Maximize Your Food Budget

How do I save money on groceries?

• Plan your meals and bring a list. This helps keep you from making impulse buys and getting more than you need.
• Choose seasonal produce. It tends to be cheaper and fresher. Farmer’s markets often have good deals (and accept SNAP benefits). Frozen is a cheap, nutritious option, too.
• Buy less meat. Meat can be one of the most expensive items in a grocery budget. Swap out some meat for less expensive plant-based protein sources — like beans, lentils, tofu, and eggs.
• Look at the unit price. This is often listed along with the shelf price. Compare the unit price across brands and go with the one that’s lowest. (In general, store brands are less expensive and still good quality.)
• Buy in bulk. Items like rice, beans, lentils, oats, and frozen vegetables are often cheaper when bought in large amounts. They also have a long shelf life, so you can use them over time.
• Shop deals. To get the best prices, use coupons, sales flyers, and rewards programs. Find which stores have the lowest prices for certain items.
• Review your receipts. If you’re trying to cut back on certain foods, like chips or soda, notice how much you’re spending on them and what else you could buy with that money.
• Skip the sugary drinks. Water is the healthier and cheaper option.

What can I do at home?

• Cook. It’s a money saver that also gives you control over ingredients and portion size.
• Use leftovers. Leftovers are great for lunch, snack, or dinner the next day. You can also turn leftovers into a new dish to keep things interesting.
• Keep your pantry stocked. Always have canned beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices on hand for quick and inexpensive meals.
• Store foods correctly. Make sure your fridge is set to 40 degrees and your freezer is set to 0 degrees, seal foods completely, and date the foods in your fridge. Learn more.
• Use the “first in, first out” technique: Food that’s been in storage longest (“first in”) should be the next food used (“first out”). This helps keep food from going bad before you can use it.
• Preserve. Freeze, can, or quick pickle foods or extra produce so it lasts longer.
• Grow your own. If you have space, consider growing your own herbs or vegetables. It's a cost-effective way to get fresh produce — and it can be a rewarding hobby.

What if I’m on a tight budget?

Food assistance programs are available to help. See if you’re eligible for:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps people pay for groceries
• Double Up Food Bucks, which doubles your SNAP benefits
• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provides healthy foods, nutrition info, and referrals for care
• Local food banks, which provide free food in communities across the country
• SUN Meals, which offers free meals and snacks for kids during the summer
• School meal programs

Craving more ideas and information? Dive deeper into healthy eating on a budget.