Saving on Groceries: Store Programs, Coupons and Smart Shopping

Food is one of the largest expenses in most household budgets, and grocery prices can be unpredictable. With a few strategies, you can save money while still eating well.

Plan first

• Take inventory of your pantry, refrigerator and freezer before shopping.
• Plan meals for the week around what you have and what is on sale.
• Make a list organized by store section, and stick to it.
• Avoid shopping when hungry, which can lead to impulse buys.

Use store programs

Loyalty programs. Most grocery chains offer free loyalty programs that provide member prices, personalized discounts and fuel rewards. Sign up at the customer service desk if you prefer not to use an app.

Digital coupons. Many stores offer digital coupons that you "clip" through a website or app and that apply automatically at checkout. If technology is unfamiliar, ask a family member or the store's customer service desk for help getting started.

Weekly sales flyers. Check flyers in the mail, newspaper or online. Plan meals around discounted items, especially proteins and produce.

Senior discount days. Some grocery stores offer discounts to older shoppers on certain days of the week or month. Ask at customer service about age requirements and details.

Shop smart in the store

Compare unit prices. The shelf tag shows the price per ounce, pound or count. This helps you compare different sizes and brands.

Choose store brands. Store brands are often similar in quality to name brands and usually cost less.

Look up and down. Higher-priced items are often placed at eye level.

Buy produce in season. Seasonal fruits and vegetables tend to cost less and taste better.

Choose frozen and canned options. Frozen vegetables and fruits, and canned beans, tomatoes and fish, are nutritious, last longer and reduce waste. Look for "no salt added" or "packed in juice" versions.

Buy whole and prep at home. A head of lettuce is usually cheaper than bagged salad, and a block of cheese is often cheaper per ounce than shredded.

Be careful with bulk. Buying in bulk saves money only if you use the food before it spoils. Consider splitting bulk purchases with a friend.

Check your receipt for pricing errors before leaving the store.

Try different stores

Discount grocers, warehouse clubs, ethnic markets and farmers markets may offer lower prices on certain items. Compare prices on the items you buy most often.

Reduce waste

• Store produce properly to keep it fresh longer.
• Freeze bread, bananas, leftovers and meat you will not use soon.
• Use older items first.
• Turn leftovers into new meals like soups, stir-fries and omelets.

Delivery and pickup

Grocery delivery and curbside pickup can be helpful, especially if transportation or mobility is a challenge. Fees and markups vary, so compare costs. Some services offer reduced fees for SNAP participants.

Food assistance programs

If you are struggling to afford food, programs may help:

• SNAP helps eligible households buy groceries and has special rules for households with members 60 or older.
• The Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program provides benefits for fresh produce in participating areas.
• The Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides monthly food boxes to eligible older adults in many areas.
• Food pantries and senior meal programs are available in many communities.

Contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 to learn about programs near you.

Terrameritavi is an independent publication and is not affiliated with any retailer or government agency.