Eating a healthy and balanced diet is important for your overall well-being, but it can also be expensive, especially when it comes to buying fresh produce. However, with a little planning and strategy, you can save money while still enjoying a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Here are some simple tips for how to save money while buying fresh produce.
1. Shop Seasonally
One of the easiest ways to save money on fresh produce is to shop seasonally. Fruits and vegetables that are in season are often less expensive because they are more abundant and do not require long-distance transportation. Additionally, seasonal produce is usually at its peak ripeness and flavor, making it a delicious and nutritious option.
2. Shop at Local Markets
Shopping at local markets is another great way to save money while buying fresh produce. Local grocers may sell their produce at lower prices than grocery stores — even for specialty items — and they may also offer deals and discounts to entice customers. Moreover, local produce markets often work with area farmers, ensuring you always get the freshest produce at the best price possible.
3. Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk can be a cost-effective way to save money on fresh produce. Look for large quantities of fruits and vegetables that are on sale, and use them to make meals that can be frozen or stored for later. You can also buy in bulk and split the cost with friends or family members to reduce your overall expenses or stick to a budget.
4. Don’t Shop on an Empty Stomach
When you’re hungry and you’re down to can goods and ramen noodles, it’s only natural to want to take a trip to the grocery store. However, this can often backfire. When you shop on an empty stomach, you tend to buy more than you need. Produce is particularly susceptible to spoilage within a short time, so anything you don’t eat goes to waste. If you want to save money, eat a healthy meal before the grocery store so you aren’t tempted to overspend or overbuy.
5. Plan Meals Ahead
Planning meals ahead of time can help you save money on fresh produce by reducing food waste and ensuring that you use all the products you buy. Create a meal plan for the week and make a list of the ingredients you need, including fresh produce. Stick to your list and avoid impulse buys to keep your grocery bill under control.
6. Grow Your Own Produce
You can’t grow anything at home, but herbs and some vegetables may not require a green thumb. If you have space in your yard or on your balcony, consider growing your own produce. This can be a fun and rewarding way to save money while enjoying the fruits of your labor. Start with easy-to-grow items like tomatoes, herbs, and lettuce to avoid frustration and supplement your list of healthy ingredients you buy from the grocer.
Buying fresh produce does not have to break the bank. By using the tips listed above and finding a local grocer that you love, you can inject money into the local economy while saving money yourself. At DLJ Produce we love sharing tips with everyday families to enjoy healthy fresh produce from your local grocer without breaking the bank. Do you have some saving tips you’d like to share, contact us and we’ll be happy to write about it.
