Supermarkets are full of products that may seem convenient or appealing but can easily drain your wallet if you’re not careful. From pre-packaged meals to pricey household items, certain grocery store buys often cost much more than they’re worth. By identifying these costly supermarket pitfalls and using these budget-friendly alternatives, you can make a huge impact on your grocery budget without sacrificing quality or taste. Here’s a look at 20 supermarket buys you might want to skip, along with budget-friendly alternatives to help you save.
Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables
Why It’s a Waste: Pre-cut produce is typically priced much higher for the convenience factor.
Budget Tip: Buy whole fruits and vegetables and cut them yourself at home.
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Bottled Water
Why It’s a Waste: Bottled water is often marked up considerably compared to tap water.
Budget Tip: Invest in a water filter and reusable bottle for an eco-friendly and economical choice.
Steven Luna/Mashed
Bagged Salads
Why It’s a Waste: Bagged salads are convenient but can be double the cost of buying individual greens.
Budget Tip: Buy heads of lettuce or bunches of greens and prep them yourself for freshness and savings.
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Pre-Shredded Cheese
Why It’s a Waste: Pre-shredded cheese costs more per ounce and sometimes contains anti-caking agents.
Budget Tip: Buy cheese blocks and shred them yourself. The fresher taste is worth the few extra minutes.
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Name-Brand Spices
Why It’s a Waste: Supermarket-brand spices are often much more expensive than bulk or generic options.
Budget Tip: Buy spices in bulk at specialty stores or try store brands for better value.
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Individual Yogurt Cups
Why It’s a Waste: Single-serving yogurt cups cost significantly more than buying a larger tub.
Budget Tip: Purchase a larger container and portion it out into reusable containers.
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Microwaveable Rice and Grains
Why It’s a Waste: Instant rice and grains are convenient but much pricier than regular options.
Budget Tip: Buy grains in bulk and cook larger portions. They store well in the fridge for later meals.
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Packaged Snack Packs
Why It’s a Waste: Pre-packaged snacks are convenient but come at a high markup for the portion size.
Budget Tip: Buy snacks in bulk and portion them into smaller containers yourself.
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Pre-Made Smoothies
Why It’s a Waste: Store-bought smoothies are often marked up and loaded with added sugars.
Budget Tip: Make your own smoothies at home with fresh or frozen fruits for a healthier, cheaper option.
NANCY SNYDER/TASTE OF HOME
Name-Brand Condiments
Why It’s a Waste: Many store-brand condiments are nearly identical in taste and quality.
Budget Tip: Opt for generic brands, which can be just as tasty but significantly cheaper.
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Instant Oatmeal Packets
Why It’s a Waste: Instant oatmeal packets cost more per serving than bulk oatmeal.
Budget Tip: Buy oats in bulk and flavor them yourself. Adding fruits or honey is more cost-effective.
Ted Berg
Frozen Entrees and Dinners
Why It’s a Waste: Frozen dinners are convenient but often lack nutritional value and are expensive per serving.
Budget Tip: Batch cook meals at home and freeze individual portions for healthier, affordable options.
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Gourmet or Imported Oils
Why It’s a Waste: Specialty oils can be very costly and often aren’t essential for everyday cooking.
Budget Tip: Stick with versatile oils like olive oil or canola. Use specialty oils sparingly if you do buy them.
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Bottled Salad Dressing
Why It’s a Waste: Store-bought dressings are overpriced, often contain preservatives, and don’t taste as fresh.
Budget Tip: Make simple dressings at home with olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings.
Samantha Maxwell/Tasting Table
Flavored Coffee Creamers
Why It’s a Waste: These creamers can be pricey and often contain artificial ingredients.
Budget Tip: Use regular milk or cream and add natural flavorings like cinnamon or vanilla extract.
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Packaged Guacamole and Hummus
Why It’s a Waste: Pre-made dips cost much more than making them at home with fresh ingredients.
Budget Tip: Make your own dips at home; they’re fresher, tastier, and often cheaper.
Savanna Swain Wilson
Energy Bars and Protein Bars
Why It’s a Waste: These bars are often expensive and contain unnecessary sugars and preservatives.
Budget Tip: Make homemade energy bars with oats, nuts, and dried fruit for a healthier option.
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Cereal
Why It’s a Waste: Many breakfast cereals are overpriced, especially those marketed toward kids.
Budget Tip: Buy bulk oats, granola, or ingredients to make your own muesli for a filling breakfast.
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Pre-Marinated Meat
Why It’s a Waste: Pre-marinated meats are priced higher than plain cuts, even though marinades are inexpensive to make.
Budget Tip: Buy plain cuts and marinate them yourself. This way, you control flavors and ingredients.
Specialty Baking Mixes
Why It’s a Waste: Pre-mixed baking kits cost more and are usually just basic ingredients mixed together.
Budget Tip: Buy baking essentials in bulk and make your own mixes. It’s much cheaper and allows for creativity.
Alana Al Hatlani
