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If you are living paycheck to paycheck and wondering how to save money on produce during this economy, you are in the right place.
Groceries are definitely getting more expensive while wages stay the same. This is really hurting many of our wallets. So, here’s one easy way to cut your food costs without sacrificing quality: buying cheap, in-season fruits and vegetables.
When produce is in season, it’s more abundant, which makes it cheaper and tastes better. Grocery stores and farmers’ markets lower prices when there’s a surplus.
This is how you can enjoy healthier meals without breaking the bank. You can buy fresh, nutritious food and save money at the same time.
Why Buying In-Season Produce Saves You Money
You really want watermelon, BUT it’s winter! Just don’t do it and wait until summer. I’m giving you this example because it happened to me! I was four months pregnant in the middle of winter and really wanted watermelon. Did I listen to the advice I’m giving you? Absolutely not! I was really craving the watermelon even when I knew better. Bought the watermelon, and when I got home, the color and taste were so off. Needless to say, it was a waste of money, and I knew this would happen!
It’s better to stick with in-season produce to have better quality, taste, and save money. Think of in-season fruits and veggies like the “sale rack” of the grocery store; when there’s a lot of something, the price drops, meaning you get to keep more of your money in your wallet.
For instance, out-of-season produce has to be shipped from far away or grown in special conditions, which makes it more expensive.
As homework, notice how much a watermelon is during winter and during summer. The price is almost double!
Make sure you are saving the money in a High Yield Savings Account.
Here is how to make money with a high-yield savings account without the risk.
Cheap Fruits and Vegetables to Buy in What Month
Here is what’s typically affordable and fresh, depending on the month you shop. Do not forget to check your local store or farmers’ market for the best prices.
Fruits in Season:
- Strawberries – Spring to early summer (April–June)
- Pineapple – Spring to early summer (March–July)
- Apples – Fall (September–November)
- Bananas – Year-round
- Oranges – Winter to early spring (December–April)
Vegetables in Season:
- Carrots – Fall through spring (September–May)
- Zucchini – Summer (May–August)
- Lettuce & Salad Greens – Spring and fall (March–June, September–November)
- Broccoli – Fall through spring (October–April)
- Cabbage – Fall and winter (November–March)
Enjoy fresh veggies and fruit, especially during their season, and save money on groceries.
Budget Tips for Buying Produce
Here are other ways to save money on produce and lower your grocery bill. Trust me, in this economy, we can never have too many tips to help us save money.
You may be interested in: How to create a simple budget.
Buy frozen too
Frozen fruits and vegetables are usually as nutritious, fresh, and can be cheaper, especially when something is out of season. I do not like the frozen veggies, but maybe you do, so it’s worth a try. I do love myself some frozen fruits, especially for smoothies! My favorites are mangoes and strawberries from Costco!
Look for markdowns
Grocery stores usually discount “ugly” produce or bags with a few soft spots, which are still perfectly good to eat! The problem is that people will not buy if they do not look in great condition. But this is your chance to save money and buy the produce that needs a little love. At least, that’s the way I see it, haha. If the produce does not have a discount, ask for one.
Buy in bulk (when it makes sense)
If you find a great deal on strawberries or greens, you can freeze some or prep them in advance to avoid waste. But only buy in bulk if you will be able to consume it on time. Otherwise, you will be wasting money when you are trying to save money.
Visit a farmers’ market or grocery stores at the end of the day
You will find more ways to save money! They often offer discounts to clear out produce; they know they won’t be able to sell it on time. Your best bet is to go in and ask. Usually, they have specific days and times when they clean inventory, and they would be happy to sell it to you at a lower price.
Save Money and Eat Better Despite Living Paycheck to Paycheck
This is your reminder that you don’t need to clip coupons or spend hours meal planning to save money on food. You can start by being intentional with what produce you buy, and when. Stretching your grocery budget can help you eat well.
You may be interested in: How to stop living paycheck to paycheck and take control of your finances.
Don’t fall for the myth that saving money on your grocery bill means sacrificing your health or having a poor diet. Eating well and sticking to a budget can go hand in hand; you just need the right strategies, seasonal picks, and a little planning. Which you are capable of doing.
Enjoy the yummy fruits and veggies!
Here are more Grocery Savings Tips you might enjoy:
