With the cost of living continuing to increase, it remains a challenge to have a balanced diet whilst food shopping within a budget. Here are some tips to make your shopping list more budget friendly while still achieving your health goals.
Plan meals for the week
Setting aside time to plan meals for the week and write a shopping list will save you having to make extra shopping trips during the week which can add up quickly.
Use meals during the week with similar ingredients
This can help to use up ingredients to reduce food waste. For example, using mince for spaghetti bolognese for one meal and chilli for another.
Buy frozen and canned fruit and veg
Frozen and canned is just as good as fresh, but it’s generally cheaper and will last longer, reducing food waste and cost in the long term.
Buy supermarket brands
Most supermarket brands are low cost so can really help lower the price of your shopping list. Also look out for any sales and discounts which can add up in the long term.
Incorporate more meat free meals
Having at least one meat free meal a week can help reduce cost by replacing with plant based alternatives such as beans and lentils. This also helps you get a wider variety in your diet.
Here are some budget friendly RTH recipes you can incorporate in your week:
- Savoury mince and rice – $3.80 per serve
- Pork stir fry – $4.90 per serve
- Tuscan bean casserole – $5.07 per serve
- Lamb pot pies – $4.00 per serve
- Lemon baked chicken – $4.50 per serve
Grab your FREE budget-friendly recipe book here.