3. Plan meals ahead Decide on a few upcoming meals heavy in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Review recipes and make a shopping list of things you need before heading to the grocery store. If you bring a list to the store, you’ll be less likely to buy things that are not on it. Also, check newspaper or online ads for coupons and to find stores with sales on the items you need. While at the store, compare the unit prices (for example, the price per ounce or liter) of different brands and different sizes. Often store brands are less expensive than name brands, but not always.
4. Shop for seasonal foods When shopping, look for seasonal California-grown produce. In grocery stores, fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season locally are often easier to find, less expensive and better tasting than those that have traveled long distances or been in cold storage for months. For an even wider selection of locally grown produce, go to a farmers market near you. There, you’ll find just-picked, fully ripe produce, and you can chat with farmers and get samples to find the best options for you.
5. Focus on low-cost staples If money is tight, focus meals around healthful, economical staples. Beans are packed full of protein, vitamins and minerals, and a 1-pound package of dried beans for less than $2 could serve as the main course for several hungry adults. A 5-pound bag of at least 10 potatoes often costs less than $3, and a 1-pound bag of rice can be less than $1. Stock up on frozen or canned fruits and vegetables when they are on good sales, but be sure to look for low-sodium canned vegetables and canned fruit packed in its own juice rather than sugary syrups.
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