Much like many things today, buying food is a huge sucker punch to the wallet! And, let’s be honest, how much of it do you end up wasting? Double sucker punch, am I right?!
So in following this month’s nutrition hacks, today’s post covers eating well on a budget.
Yup, even a tiny one.
Here are my go-to tips:
Plan meals in advance: Playing off last week’s blog post, this one relates here too! Create a weekly meal plan (even if it’s just a loose one) and shop accordingly to avoid impulsive and expensive purchases.
Buy in bulk: Purchase staple ingredients like grains, beans, nuts, and seeds in bulk. They are often cheaper when bought in larger quantities and can be used in various recipes.
Cook at home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control ingredients and portion sizes, ultimately saving money compared to eating out.
Proper storage: Store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator in breathable bags or containers to maintain freshness. Keep perishable items, like meats and dairy products, at the appropriate temperature.
First in, first out: When unpacking groceries, move older products to the front of the fridge or pantry and place new purchases behind them. This way, you'll use up items before they spoil.
Repurpose leftovers: Get creative with leftovers by transforming them into new meals. For example, use leftover chicken in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Batch cooking: Cook larger quantities of meals and freeze individual portions for later use. This helps save money and time, especially on busy days.
Shop with a list: You know who you are – use a list and don’t shop when hungry! Create a shopping list based on your meal plan and stick to it to avoid buying unnecessary items.
Buy seasonal produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often more affordable and taste better since they are harvested at their peak.
Cheap out: Incorporate affordable ingredients like canned tuna, eggs, oats, or frozen vegetables into your meals. They are versatile, nutritious, and easy on the wallet.
The more money we can save on food and food waste, the better! Let me know if these tips offered you some inspiration on making your food budget suck less.