Spending $400 a month on groceries... how to lower it?

Seeking Advice Forum
1

I’ve been spending $400 a month on groceries and this seems wild to me. I really want to find ways to lower this amount while still eating healthy. I’ve been trying to make sure I’m getting enough protein, fruits, and vegetables. I’ve been buying canned chicken and tuna, store brands, and other canned protein, but I’m still spending a ton. Any tips on how to cut costs without sacrificing nutrition would be appreciated.

2

I totally get where you’re coming from. It can be really tough to keep grocery costs down while trying to eat healthy. Have you thought about meal planning? It can really help you stick to your budget.

3

@Gael
Meal planning sounds like a good idea. How exactly do you go about it? Like, do you plan for the entire week?

4

Laken said:
@Gael
Meal planning sounds like a good idea. How exactly do you go about it? Like, do you plan for the entire week?

Yeah, I usually plan meals for the whole week and make a shopping list based on that. It helps me avoid impulse buys at the store.

5

Another thing you might try is buying in bulk. Things like rice, pasta, and canned goods can be cheaper that way. Plus, they last a long time.

6

Avery said:
Another thing you might try is buying in bulk. Things like rice, pasta, and canned goods can be cheaper that way. Plus, they last a long time.

Buying in bulk sounds smart. But does it really save that much money?

7

@Laken
For sure. It can add up, especially if you use those items regularly. Just make sure you have storage space.

8

Have you considered shopping at different stores? Sometimes local markets or discount stores have better prices on fresh produce and protein.

9

Vic said:
Have you considered shopping at different stores? Sometimes local markets or discount stores have better prices on fresh produce and protein.

I haven’t really explored other stores much. Do you have any recommendations?

10

@Laken
Yeah, check out some local farmers markets for fresh fruits and veggies. They often have better prices than grocery chains.

11

I think it’s also about being flexible with your meals. Sometimes I swap out expensive ingredients for cheaper ones if I find a good deal.

12

Vic said:
I think it’s also about being flexible with your meals. Sometimes I swap out expensive ingredients for cheaper ones if I find a good deal.

That makes sense. Do you have examples of how to swap ingredients?

13

@Laken
Sure, like if a recipe calls for chicken, but ground turkey is on sale, I’ll use that instead. It’s healthier too.

14

I’ve been there too. I started to track my spending more closely, and it really helped me see where I could cut back.

15

Nicol said:
I’ve been there too. I started to track my spending more closely, and it really helped me see where I could cut back.

Tracking my spending sounds helpful. What methods do you use to keep track?

16

@Laken
I just use a simple app on my phone. It helps me see my grocery spending at a glance.