Maximize Your Grocery Shopping Trip

Let's face it, grocery stores can be overwhelming. With so much variety available at our fingertips, from ethnic ingredients to vegan, organic and gluten-free options, grocery shopping can be intimidating. To help shake off the stress of shopping, here are our tips and tricks to maximize your next trip:

1) Don't shop when you're hungry

When you're hungry, you're more likely to make impulsive purchases based less on what you need and more on what you're craving. You'll find your cart beginning to pile up, resulting in a more costly grocery bill with unhealthy food options. Remember, only buy what you need.

2) Make a shopping list and stick to it

Plan your meals for the week and make a grocery list for what you'll need to prepare these dishes. This will limit the urge to overbuy and will reduce the chance of buying groceries that are left unused by the end of the week. Wasted food is money down the drain (or down the garbage chute!).

3) Browse the bulk bins aisle

Many stores offer different foods in bulk bins (like spices, grains and nuts) all at discounted prices. Bulk bins are also a great way to try a new ingredient and many stores offer a "bring your own container" program to help eliminate packaging waste.

4) Use technology

Technology is your friend, especially when it comes to your groceries. Plan your next shopping spree with money-saving apps. There are a wide-range of apps available that help you clip coupons across major retailers and brands. Take a look at the app to see what’s on sale and let it inspire your meals for the week.

5) Stock up on staples

Staple items, like canned tomatoes, dried pasta and beans, are always great to have on hand at home. Non-perishable foods also tend to be cheaper and have a longer shelf-life, so be sure to stock up when they're on sale.

6) Eat seasonally

Eating fruits and vegetables when they're in season can save you money. Buying food at the peak of its supply means that it's cheaper – and fresher, too! Head to your local farmer's market or producer to see what's available.

7) Skip the meat at least once a week

Even if you buy meat in bulk, it's still one of the most expensive items in your grocery budget. You can find savings by simply removing meat from one or more meals per week. There are great meatless options as well as meat substitutes. Check out our vegetarian recipes here!

8) Use up your leftovers

Don't throw away leftovers! Pack your leftovers to bring for lunch, or repurpose for an entirely new meal. It's a great way to save money and eliminate food waste. Chances are, if you liked a dish the first time, it'll taste just as great heated up in your microwave or oven on day two. One of our favourites is leftover turkey meatballs in a spicy tomato sauce.

9) Meal Prep

If you want to save time and money, meal prepping is for you. Instead of buying ingredients for a new meal every day, purchasing items in bulk can lead to cost-saving deals. Developing the routine is the first step – but once you see how much money and time you're saving, you won't be able to stop. Plus, you'll be able to enjoy the rest of your week without having to worry about cooking. This means more time to socialize with family and friends, catch up on shows or workout.

Need some cooking and recipe inspiration? Check out Panasonic Kitchen Canada on Pinterest!