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For many households, groceries are a significant expense. But, with some planning, you can save money, eat healthily, and even contribute to your cause by shopping with FundScrip’s participating retailers. Here are eight effective tips:

1. Shop During Sales and Use Price-Matching

Comparing your grocers’ sales in their flyers can be a worthwhile endeavour. The best part is you can get the best deal without the extra mileage. When going through the flyers, have your scissors handy or your fingers ready to take screenshots, because some grocers such as No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore, Freshco, Maxi, IGA and Giant Tiger offer price matching! Some conditions apply.

2. Plan Your Meals and Create a Shopping List

Meal planning is essential to staying within your grocery budget and avoiding unhealthy choices or buying more than you need. Start by planning your meals for the week and then creating a shopping list based on the ingredients you need. A well-organized list helps you stay focused in the store and keeps unnecessary items out of your cart.

3. Avoid Shopping on an Empty Stomach

Staying disciplined at the grocery store is more difficult when you’re hungry. Shopping while hungry can lead to impulse buys, often for snack foods or unhealthy options that aren’t on your list. If you haven’t eaten before heading out, consider having a low-sugar protein snack. This prevents cravings and helps you stick to your shopping list.

4. Shop Store Brands Instead of Name Brands

Store-brand products are often just as high-quality as their name-brand counterparts, but with a lower price. Try store-brand versions of your regular items and you might find that they meet your taste and quality standards.

5. Buy Seasonal and Local Produce

Choosing seasonal produce is cost-effective and the best way to get the freshest options. Seasonal produce is generally cheaper, and shopping for local options supports nearby farmers, which is a win-win for you and your community. Don’t forget that seasonally bought fruits and vegetables can be frozen to enjoy later with most, if not all, of their vitamins and nutrients intact!

6. Buy in Bulk When It Makes Sense

If you find a great deal on items you use frequently, consider buying in bulk if you can store them properly. Make sure you’re prepared to consume these items before they expire to avoid waste. Non-perishables like grains, pasta, and canned goods are ideal for bulk purchases, as they're easy to store and have a long shelf life.

7. Take Advantage of Rewards Programs

Many FundScrip participating retailers offer rewards programs that allow you to save money on groceries. For example, the PC Optimum program works with Loblaws, No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore and Independent, while the Moi Rewards Program works with Food Basics and Metro. Enrolling in these programs is free and can lead to significant savings. Additionally, points from the Scene+ rewards program can be redeemed at FundScrip participating grocers like Sobeys, Safeway, and Foodland. And finally, if you're in the Toronto area, Longo’s Thank You Rewards are another great option for saving on groceries.

8. Use Gift Cards for Groceries

Gift cards can be a smart budgeting tool that help you limit your spending to a specific amount each week or month. By purchasing grocery gift cards through FundScrip, you can stick to your budget and support your fundraising cause simultaneously. This way, you're saving money and contributing to something meaningful.

With these tips, you’re equipped to make grocery shopping a nutritious and budget-friendly experience. Start planning your shopping trips with these strategies in mind, and if you haven’t already, consider using FundScrip to support your cause while you shop. Happy saving!