In our last blog post, we discussed how to save money on protein. If you haven’t read it yet, go back and check out some tips on protein sources on a budget.

 

Now it’s time to talk produce. Produce can be expensive, but with a few simple tips, you can save money without sacrificing quality or nutrition.

 

1. Buy in season. Purchasing produce that is in season is one of the best ways to save money. Seasonal produce is typically cheaper because it is more plentiful and therefore less expensive to market and transport. In addition, seasonal produce is often grown locally, so it’s likely more nutritious plus you’re supporting your local farmers.

2. Buy frozen. Frozen produce is flash frozen; therefore, all the nutrition of fresh produce is locked in place. Frozen produce can last up to a year, so it’s a great way to stock up when prices are low and have it available throughout the year.

https://www.tastingtable.com/919759/mistakes-everyone-makes-with-frozen-food/

3. Buy frozen vegetables without sauces or seasonings. Avoid buying frozen vegetables that come with sauces or seasonings. These will often be more expensive and contain added salt and other ingredients that you may not want.

 

4. Buy in bulk. Buying in bulk can be a great way to save money when it comes to produce. Look for stores that offer bulk discounts on certain produce items. Buy only the amount you’ll use within a few days or will have time to process (ex. freeze, can, puree, etc) to avoid waste.

https://www.eatthis.com/worst-bulk-items-to-buy/

5. Buy from local farmers markets or ‘u-pick’ farms. Local farmers markets and ‘u-pick’ farms often offer the freshest, most affordable produce available. You may also be able to get produce that is slightly past its prime, which can be a great way to save money. With a bit of planning and these tips, you can save money on your produce purchases at the grocery store.

By taking advantage of seasonal produce, buying frozen, buying in bulk, and shopping at farmers markets or ‘u-pick’ farms, you can have fresh, healthy produce without breaking the bank.