10 tips to save on groceries

1. Make a shopping list to avoid impulse buys and stay within your budget

Before heading to the grocery store, list what you want to buy. When you get to there, buy only what’s on your list.

2. Shop the store brands

• President’s Choice, No Name, Compliments, Sélection: store brands are often much better priced than name brands. So it’s a good idea to consider them first, especially for staples such as flour, eggs, oil and sugar.
• Careful now! The most expensive products are often shelved at eye level. Look higher and lower. That’s where you’ll typically find the store brands.

3. Buy in bulk

Many grocery stores sell only in bulk. Buying products without packaging not only helps reduce waste, it saves you money! Bring your reusable containers and bags and stock up on nuts, spices, household products, jam and granola!

4. Compare prices and base your menus on discounts

• Before each grocery trip, check the flyers and design your weekly menu based on the discounts.
• Compare prices with apps like Reebee or Flipp. These allow you to compare the online flyers of several grocery stores and find out where a specific product is cheapest.
• Take full advantage of coupons.

5. Consider nearly expired food

• Do your shopping at the end of the day. That way you’ll benefit from discounts on products that are nearing their sell-by date. Some grocery stores always reserve a corner for them.
• Use apps like Food Hero, Flashfood or Une Bonne Chance: they’ll quickly tell you which nearby grocery stores are having a sale on food that’s about to expire.

6. Cook in big batches and freeze leftovers

• Go for the large formats. Their price per portion is generally lower, especially for meat.
• Always check the price per kilogram to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
• Cook and then freeze what you don’t need for that week.
• If you have good neighbours or friends nearby, consider a meal swap: double a recipe and swap half for another dish. You’ll make some great discoveries and build a stronger bond with your friends!

7. Use price match policies

Some grocery chains, like Maxi and Giant Tiger, have a best-price guarantee. When the flyers show that a same-brand item is cheaper elsewhere, have the price matched. The Reebee and Flipp apps make it easy to prove.

8. Eat less meat

We all know meat is expensive. Why not challenge yourself to only one meat meal a week? Put beans, tofu and eggs on the menu. You’ll save money and help the environment at the same time.

9. Hold a loyalty card

Many grocery chains offer loyalty programs. By accumulating points, you’ll be entitled to discounts or free items.

10. Grow your own herbs

In summer, indeed year-round, consider growing your own herbs. They have the power to enhance dishes yet are often expensive at the grocery store.

Lastly, never go to the supermarket on an empty stomach! You’ll be tempted to buy much more especially sweets! If, despite our advice, you’re still having trouble managing your finances and have accumulated debts, don’t hesitate to call on one of our licensed insolvency trustees.