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Grocery-Store Hacks That Add up to Huge Savings

Worried that rising food prices will force you to survive on canned beans and instant noodles? You’re not alone.

A recent study by Mainstreet Research found that nearly a quarter of Canadians are eating less than they should because they can’t afford enough food. In the U.S., Morning Consult reported that 53% of Americans have adjusted their food and beverage consumption due to inflation.

While grocery costs continue to climb, there are still ways to stretch your food budget without sacrificing nutrition. Here are some practical strategies to help you save at the checkout.

Opt for Generic Brands

Avoiding name-brand products can lead to significant savings. Staples like canned goods, cereal, flour, sugar, and spices can cost up to 30% more when purchased from popular brands. Choosing store-brand alternatives can help cut costs while still providing the same quality.

For example, Safeway’s in-house peanut butter costs just $2.49 for a 16-oz. jar, while a 15.5-oz. jar of Jif is priced at $3.49. That’s a dollar saved for even more peanut butter—a small but meaningful win for your grocery budget.

Track Your Store’s Sales Cycle

A little observation and tracking can go a long way. Keep a spreadsheet of frequently purchased items and note their prices each time you shop. This will help you identify sales trends and plan meals accordingly.

For example, if beef prices are soaring but pork is on sale, adjust your meal plan to incorporate the cheaper protein. Apps like RedFlagDeals can alert you to price drops and special offers, helping you stock up on essentials when they’re at their lowest price.

However, be mindful of your actual needs. Buying in bulk only saves money if you use what you buy before it expires.

Beware of Shrinkflation and Do the Math

“Shrinkflation” occurs when manufacturers reduce package sizes while keeping prices the same—or even increasing them. Always check labels to ensure you’re getting the best value.

Also, calculate the price per unit. For example, if long-grain white rice costs $2.59 for 907g and medium-grain rice is $6.39 for 1.81kg, the smaller bag is actually the better deal at 29 cents per 100g compared to 35 cents per 100g for the larger one. Some stores display this information for you, but if not, a quick calculation on your phone can reveal hidden savings.

Use Coupons and Loyalty Programs

Coupons aren’t just for extreme bargain hunters. Apps like Flipp, Save.ca, Swagbucks, and RedFlagDeals can help you find discounts on groceries, while digital coupons make it even easier to save.

Loyalty programs also offer great benefits. For example, shoppers at Loblaws-owned stores can earn 10% back in Optimum points on PC-brand products, which can be redeemed for groceries and household items. Some stores even allow coupon stacking—combining a manufacturer’s coupon with a store discount for even deeper savings.

Avoid Retail Tricks and Impulse Buys

Grocery stores are designed to tempt you into spending more. Essentials like milk and eggs are placed at the back so you have to walk past enticing displays to reach them. Expensive items are often positioned at eye level, while checkout lanes are stocked with impulse-buy items like candy and magazines.

Many prominent “sale” displays are simply marketing tricks. A product’s placement doesn’t always mean it’s a good deal—sometimes, it’s just there to grab your attention. Stick to your shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases.

Stick to Your Budget and Plan Ahead

With grocery prices on the rise, staying disciplined with your shopping habits can make all the difference. Plan your meals, take advantage of discounts, and be mindful of marketing tactics designed to make you spend more. A little effort and strategy can help you navigate inflation while keeping your grocery bills in check.

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