Student grocery hacks

A box of vegetables

You would have heard that the cost of living is on the rise, so I went around and asked some of you what your top tips are for cutting down on food costs.

  • Stick to a grocery list and especially for non-fresh items, try and use click and collect so you aren’t tempted to buy items that aren’t on your list.
  • If you’re a meat-eater, buy on special and freeze for future use.
  • Frozen berries and vegetables contain the same nutritional value and are cheaper than buying fresh.
  • Keep a separate budget for discretionary items like junk food and take-away, and decide on times when you can treat yourself with these.
  • Buy fresh food that’s in season.
  • Do not go shopping when you’re hungry.
  • Cheaper items are usually placed high up or down low on the shelves.
  • Compare unit prices for similar grocery items.
  • Avoid food waste by ensuring that you store your food properly at home.
  • Plan out your meals so you can potentially prepare them in bulk and freeze them. Here are some common and easy freezer-friendly meals:
    1. Creamy Bolognese pasta bake
    2. Roast pumpkin soup
    3. Curried sausages
    4. Chicken casserole
    5. Shepherd’s pie

Have you got any to add?

Tagged in What messes with your head, student budget, Student cookbook, student hack