I’m a Retired Boomer: Here Are 10 Grocery Items I Always Buy To Save Money

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especially on those larger, more variable expenses like grocery shopping.

.

You can begin this week.

Take the time to think about your shopping goals and preferences to make informed decisions that promote a healthy and sustainable diet.

"I often choose foods that can be used in many different ways," she said.

She noted that it's not an exhaustive list, but here are some items she typically buys at the store:

Hamburger (Ground Chuck)

• $4.99/pound
• Ground beef pasta, hamburgers, tacos.

Chicken Breasts

• $2.69/pound
• There are three different meal ideas: "Chicken and mushroom casserole," "chicken and rice," and curry dishes.

Pork Tenderloins

• $3.49/pound (boneless)
• Roasted Pork Tenderloins with a variety of vegetables

Whole Potatoes

• $4.99 for a 5-pound bag of Russet potatoes
• Baked potatoes, breakfast casseroles

Cabbage

• $0.59/pound
• Hearty steaks, crispy bacon with sautéed greens, and garden-fresh side salads

Onions

• $1.29/pound
• French onion soup, a hearty dish made with onions sautéed in a broth, paired with savory chicken dishes, including a classic chicken pot pie.

Canned Tomatoes

• $0.98/14.5 ounces (diced)
• Stews, soups, casseroles

Frozen Peas

• $1.99/pound
• Side dish, salad, chunky chicken and pea dinner

Jasmine Rice

• $4.39/2 pounds
• Roasted chicken and rice, stir-fry plate

Vermicelli Pasta

• $0.99 to $1.79/pound
• Soups, meats, and vegetables, along with pasta.

10. **Use leftovers**: Plan meals that use leftovers to reduce food waste and save money. Get creative with your leftovers and turn last night's dinner into tomorrow's lunch.

When it comes to grocery shopping, flexibility is key. But finding other ways to cut costs at the store is also a top priority.

We seniors on fixed incomes find it can be pretty tough," Connie said. "Saving money when we shop for groceries really helps make up for other regular expenses like our utility bills.

She shared the strategies she uses to save money when shopping for groceries:

• “Always check the sales flyers at multiple stores that you like, whether you see them online or in-store,” she suggested. What's full price at your local Target might be on sale at Food Lion or Safeway.
• “Sign up for their rewards cards and take advantage of their perks,” Connie said. Many grocery stores offer a free loyalty program that you can sign up for at any time. All you usually need to get the discounts is your phone number, which you apply at the checkout.
• "Clip coupons, either physically or online," Connie said. The average household saves between $5 and $10 a week using coupons. That’s $260 to $520 per year. You don't have to limit your savings to just manufacturer coupons. Rebate websites and free apps can also provide great discounts on grocery items.
• You get two items for the price of one with buy one, get one free deals - a fantastic bargain regardless of your situation. Just make sure to take advantage of these deals on items you like and will actually use, so you don't end up with unwanted stuff collecting dust in the pantry.

She learned by experience that not being a "brand snob" is probably the most effective way she's saved money at the grocery store.

I assure you, I'm speaking from my own experience," she said. "Give the store brands a try to see if you prefer them just as much as the name-brand products. Often, you'll find there's not a huge difference, particularly when it comes to basic items such as butter, sugar, flour, milk, and some canned goods.

You'll notice a big difference when you compare prices for various grocery items between store brands and name-brand products. That's because you can save about 40% by switching to store-brand items overall.

The information applicable to the Raleigh area and is current as of October 10, 2024.

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Saving at the checkout counter can be just as satisfying as finding a bargain at garage sales or splitting the tab on a dinner date. Here are 10 grocery items I always add to my cart to help me have more money in my bank account by the end of the month.