How to save money on groceries as food prices soar
Plan before you buy
Before you even step foot inside a supermarket, it’s important to plan out the meals you’ll be cooking for the week or fortnight ahead.
Dietitian and behaviour change scientist Dr Kirsty Seward said people can make the biggest savings if they’re prepared to put in the planning time.
Batch cooking meals will also allow you to buy meat in bulk, which often works out cheaper.
“Consider creating meals that use the same type of meat, so you can buy things like chicken breasts in bulk, or using recipes that have similar ingredients,” she said.
“When you have a meal plan, you’ll know how much of the ingredients you’ll need so you’re not wasting food and therefore wasting money.”
Batch cooked meals that freeze well include curries, casseroles, stews, soups and slow cooked sauces like ragu.
Buy seasonal and look for cheap cuts of meat
Buying fresh fruit and vegetables that are in season is an easy way to keep your grocery bill down, as these items are often cheaper.
You can also consider fresh produce that is well priced year-round.
“Things like leafy greens, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots and apples – their prices don’t really fluctuate too much,” Dr Seward said.
“Budgeting comes down to eating consistently too, and if you tend to eat similar foods each week then you’re more likely to keep your budget consistent.”
Also consider the cut of meat. Minced meat is often cheaper than a fillet cut, while tougher cuts that are great for slow cooking will be cheaper per kilogram.
