Setting a budget and monitoring your finances has its benefits. The security that comes from a well-balanced bank account is nice, but one of the first casualties in the battle for better budgeting comes on our grocery lists. Most people assume that eating cheap means eating tasteless, boring, bland food. That doesn’t have to be the case. If you know where to look, what to buy, and how to spend, it’s possible to ball on a budget when doing your grocery shopping. 

Here are five easy ways to capitalize on your grocery spending and make the most of your money. 

Eat in, not out.

It’s easy to do. While at work, running errands, or traveling, grabbing a quick bite to eat is so easy. Eating out can really put a hurting on your checkbook. One of the easiest ways to save money and get the most out of your budget is to eat at home more often. Eat breakfast before leaving instead of grabbing food on the road. Pack a lunch. Cook a nice dinner at home instead of going out. You’ll be surprised how much money you save by using your kitchen more. 

Plan Ahead and Don’t Deviate.

Meal planning can save you a ton of money. Here’s how it works: make a menu, build out a grocery list, and only purchase those items on your list. It’s that simple. By avoiding impulse grocery buys, you can shave dollars off of your expenses. You’ll be eating cheaper, shopping less, and save money in the process. 

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Buy Seasonal Produce.

As the old saying goes, “For everything there is a season.” This is as true in the produce section as much as anywhere else. Produce that is out of season is often much more expensive when compared to its seasonal counterpart. By buying fruits, vegetables, and greens that are more readily available at particular times of the year you’ll be able to save a lot more green yourself. 

Junkfood costs you twice.

There are a lot of reasons why we are drawn towards the brightly packaged, sugar-laced items found in the junk food sections of the supermarket. One reason is that junk food is considered “cheaper” when compared with healthier options. If what you’re searching for is financial security, keep in mind that putting harmful, nutrition-devoid food in your body will cost you twice–once at the checkout line and then again in medical bills and health complications. Eating healthy can save you money. 

Learn to love leftovers.

Those forgotten remnants of past suppers in your fridge are actually a shortcut to savings. Having leftovers for lunch that you salvaged from dinner the night before cuts down on prep time and on the amount you spend on food every week. Plus, it’s better for the overall health of the planet. Leftovers are both ecologically and fiscally beneficial. 

Fit Five Meals offers easy solutions that will save you time and money without costing you an arm and a leg. Our fresh, never-frozen meals are easy on your wallet and cost only $8 per meal on average. You can eat healthy, delicious food and save money in the process. Check out our updated menu.