Comments on: 10 Tips to Recession-Proof Your Grocery Shopping

By: Simon

Simon — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:17:02 +0000

Good tips. It’s easy to go to the store and get carried away. I find that when I have a list I do much, much better. Also thinking of nutrients, quality and freshness keeps me in check.

By: ~M

~M — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 17:21:16 +0000

Make a grocery price spreadsheet so you know which grocery store (or Amazon) or bulk store to go for what items and the regular vs. sale prices for each item.

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By: Heather

Heather — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 23:17:43 +0000

“3. Don’t skimp on produce. Buy organic even if slightly more expensive.”

Be careful with this one. Sometimes the ‘organic’ produce is carted in from China or Costa Rica. While local organic produce is the ideal, often local non-organic is a greener choice than organic food that has travelled thousands of miles (emitting carbon the whole trip).

Of course if both the organic and non-organic options are from Costa Rica, then go for the organic. But a better tip, I think, is “search for local produce”. It’s usually a better quality and fresher (since it does not have to be prepped for long-haul travel), you’re supporting local growers (those CSA’s are indeed great but not available everywhere), and it’s sometimes also cheaper. Even when it’s a bit more costly, you’re still getting good value for the better quality!

So find a Farmer’s Market or look for growers with roadside stands. Smaller, community-based markets sometimes have better local produce selection than large chains.

By: Zombiesgirl

Zombiesgirl — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:54:41 +0000

I find that my apartment’s patio space is too small to grow fruits and veg, but when cutting costs is involved its amazing how much i save by growing a few herbs. I planted chive seeds a couple years ago and there has been many a recipe where i have omitted onions and green onions in favor of a few chives. I no longer pay a couple bucks for a handful of rosemary or thyme. ive even dried a small harvest of mint on occasion and taken it as a hostess gift.

By: TwinToddlersDad

TwinToddlersDad — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:36:02 +0000

Great tips. A few more ideas
1. Don’t go grocery shopping on an empty stomach! Eat before you go. If you are hungry, there is a good chance you will grab something extra which is not on your list.
2. As you said, avoid processed foods. Also, skip the frozen section where you have “ready-to-eat” frozen foods. Not only are they expensive, they are not very nutritious; usually high in cholesterol and sodium.
3. Don’t skimp on produce. Buy organic even if slightly more expensive. Cook more often.
4. Watch the waste – encourage your family to not leave food on their plate.
5. Use re-usable bags to bring your groceries back. Many stores are offering them now. You will bring only what you can fit in those bags. With plastic bags, you lose track of how much you are buying.

Good luck!

By: @GreenMom

@GreenMom — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:20:45 +0000

Good tips. It’s easy to go to the store and get carried away. I find that when I have a list I do much, much better. Also thinking of nutrients, quality and freshness keeps me in check.