Pick the right time to shop

Don't go shopping when you are hungry because you will spend more money at the store! Try to shop only once a week. Also, if possible, go shopping without your children.

Store-brand or generic items cost less and usually taste the same as the more expensive brands.

Compare unit prices

Compare the unit price on similar foods. The unit price will tell you the cost per ounce, pound, or pint of food so you know which brand is cheapest to buy. The unit price is normally marked on a shelf sticker just below the product. The lower the unit price, the cheaper the item.

Buying items in large amounts or in "bulk" can often get you a cheaper unit price and save you money. Compare the prices of fresh, frozen, and canned foods to get the best deal.

Read food labels

Reading labels can help you make wise food choices. Most packaged foods in the grocery store list two important pieces of information: nutrition facts and ingredients. Reading these labels can help you make an educated choice about which product is the healthiest for you and your family.

Choose the "right" food

Look at the "sell by" or "best if used by" dates on packages. Pick the package with the latest date so you get the freshest food. Sometimes you can get bargains on day-old bakery products and clearance items. However, keep in mind that these will spoil more quickly and might not be the best deal.

Use the "stoop and rise" method of searching for deals. Items at eye level are usually the most expensive, so look high and low.

Fruits and vegetables in season are usually the freshest and also the cheapest!

Check the "Unit Price"

How to Find the Facts

How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label

Read Food Labels

Reading Food Labels

Unit Pricing: What it is and How to Use it