Naveen Umakanth has asked for some tips to save on groceries when you have a vegetarian diet, here’s the question:
We are vegetarians. We are unable to keep up with the rising costs of fruits, vegetables, diary and bread. Please assist us on how to?
Here’s how Jody Allen puts it:
Hi Naveen! Okay, there is lots you can do. Some grocery stores have a range of ‘Less than perfect but still perfectly edible’ fruit and veggies that are discounted. Go to your local markets at close to closing time and negotiate the prices on produce that is left.
Eating what’s in season always guarantees you get the best fruit and veggies at the best price – and there is nothing better than growing your own in you have the space to do so.
When it comes to bread – grab yourself a bread maker – I picked mine up for $20 at a Pawn Broker and it was still new in the box. Look at purchasing large buckets of bread mix from your local bakery (they don’t advertise it but most are more than happy to sell you bulk product).
And also look at ‘re-growing’ some veggies that you have already purchased. Spring onions, potatoes and celery can all be re-grown pretty easily!
And here’s what Emily Stewart suggests:
You’re not alone. A lot of people are finding it tough to afford their usual groceries right now.
One important thing you can do at the supermarket is always look at the unit pricing. It sounds complex but it’s a great way to compare different brands but also different sizes. It is on the label and called ‘price per 100gms’ or ‘price per litre’.
Bigger sizes tend to be cheaper, so can you buy some staples like rice or flour in bulk?
If you eat a lot of beans, lentils and peas, try buying them in the dried form rather than canned. (Canned pulses are pre-cooked and stored in water, while you have to add water to the dried varieties, so in the end you get more from the bag of dried pulses).
These also make great fillers in soups, casseroles, curries etc and can extend the vegetables you buy.
Don’t forget canned and frozen fruit and vegetables are also often cheaper (but still nutritious).
If things get really tough, there are food banks available. There’s a great website called AskIzzy that can connect you with services in your area.
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