Rising food prices have increased financial pressure on households, prompting financial experts to advise that small changes to shopping habits can significantly reduce grocery bills.
According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) recently released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall food prices have risen by 2.5% over the past year. Food consumed at home increased by 1.8%, while dining-out costs jumped by 3.5%, placing a heavy burden on household budgets.
In response, Fox Business outlined seven daily habits recommended by financial planning experts to help consumers cut down on grocery expenses.
1. Plan Weekly Menus and Make Shopping Lists
Kelly Smith, managing director of financial planning at Edelman Financial Engines, explained that planning meals for the week and listing required ingredients before shopping is the most fundamental way to eliminate unnecessary spending.
2. Check the Refrigerator and Pantry First
Ted Jenkin, CEO of Exit Stage Left Advisors, advised checking refrigerators, freezers, and pantries for existing ingredients beforehand. Knowing what is already on hand prevents the duplicate purchase of identical items.
3. Leverage Discounted Items and Private Labels
Smith suggested flexible consumption, such as buying discounted chicken instead of beef or choosing store-brand products that are cheaper than name-brand alternatives.
4. Use Digital Coupons and Membership Benefits
Major grocery chains offer discount coupons, reward points, and cash-back benefits through mobile applications and customer loyalty programs.
5. Limit Grocery Trips to Once a Week
Jenkin recommended doing grocery shopping once a week in a planned manner rather than making multiple trips. Frequently visiting grocery stores or purchasing lunch at prepared food counters can lead to unexpected spending.
6. Compare Unit Prices
Bulk items are not always cheaper. Jenkin explained that checking the unit price displayed on product packaging allows shoppers to accurately compare the true value of products in different sizes.
7. Store Ingredients Properly to Reduce Food Waste
Meat, milk, and fresh produce all require different storage methods. Properly managing food ingredients and consuming leftover items first helps prevent additional expenses.
Experts emphasized that making rational purchases suited to actual consumption habits is more important than discounts or accumulation benefits themselves.
