How To Save Grocery Dollars Without clipping coupons

If you feel like your trips to the grocery store have been putting a bigger dent in your wallet lately, you’re not imagining things. The average family of four is expected to spend $16,297.20 on food in 2024, an increase of up to $701.79 from last year, compared to an increase of $1,065 in 2023.

Overall, food prices are up 22.5 per cent since May of 2020, Statistics Canada data shows. The monthly increase in meat was largely the result of higher prices for fresh or frozen beef, amid high demand and tight supply, Statistics Canada noted. The result is that food costs remain a significant drag for the consumers wallet.

It might sound a bit unconventional, but organizing your fridge and freezer can actually help you save money on groceries.

This will prevent wasted food and unnecessary trips to the grocery store to re-stock items that you forgot to use. Also, when your fridge and pantry are organized, and your meals are planned, you will be more inclined to cook at home. This is also a healthier option for you and your family. Look for my mini course on “7 Steps to a Healthier You” here: https://eatlivedesign.com/product/unlock-your-heal…-a-healthier-you

Bottles, Bins and Baskets; Organized Pantry Shelves

Organizing your pantry and fridge can significantly reduce your grocery bill for several reasons:

1. Prevents Overbuying: When your food items are neatly organized, you can see what you already have. This helps you avoid purchasing duplicates or items you don’t need.
2. Minimizes Food Waste: An organized space allows you to keep track of expiration dates and ensures that older items are used first. This reduces the chances of throwing away expired or forgotten food.
3. Promotes Meal Planning: With a clear view of your inventory, it’s easier to plan meals based on what you already have. This can help you create shopping lists that focus only on what you genuinely need.
4. Maximizes Space: Proper organization can help you utilize your storage effectively, allowing you to make the most out of what you have without the need for additional purchases.
5. Encourages Bulk Buying: When you know exactly how much space you have and what you need, you can buy in bulk where it makes sense, taking advantage of sales and discounts without fear of clutter or spoilage.
6. Saves Time and Energy: An organized pantry and fridge make it quicker to find what you need, which can save time during meal prep and reduce impulse buys.

Overall, effective organization not only helps you save money but also enhances your cooking experience and encourages healthier eating habits.

Clear plastic bins and glass bottles keeps everything in sight and organized. Bins and bottles purchased at Homesense.

By keeping a well-organized inventory and a daily updated shopping list you will reduce your food waste to a minimum. These bins pictured above I purchased at Homesense. I like the clear plastic with the handles because you can see at a glance what is in them. They are also easy to take out and clean. It keeps like things together and organized.

Happy Organizing! Start saving those wasted grocery dollars.

BB