ONE GROCERY HACK TO SAVE THOUSANDS ON YOUR FOOD BILL | FRUGAL LIVING TIPS

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ความคิดเห็น • 678

  • @conniebaum8043
    @conniebaum8043 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I love your food logic! We're in our 80s and eat real food. We wouldn't have made it this far if we had lots of ice cream and soda. We aren't bothered by weight issues, either. Keep telling it like it is, Christine. You will help so many people become wiser and healthier. I really admire you, young lady!🌟

  • @breve711
    @breve711 3 ปีที่แล้ว +165

    my sister always asks me how i gave up soda/fizzy drinks and gets mad when i tell her to walk to the supermarket lol. i did this out of necessity coz i don't drive and at the time grocery delivery wasn't a thing where i lived, but you really do re-evaluate what you want when you have to carry everything you buy the 20min walk home.

    • @momentsformoms9467
      @momentsformoms9467 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Very true,I’ve done it many times because I don’t have a license & stores are a half hour away. We don’t really have much sidewalk here where I live so using a wagon isn’t really an option either. I used to use the stroller when my son was little & we lived somewhere with sidewalks,but we also thankfully had a store a block away. Only problem was in the winter because no one shoveled their walks around us for some lazy reason so a 5 minute walk turned into 30.

    • @CarFreeKC
      @CarFreeKC 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Amen. I have to cart my groceries on the bus.. so I for sure think twice. If i can't carry it all in my two hands, I don't buy it!

    • @kristathehungrymelon
      @kristathehungrymelon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I drive, but I use a similar strategy at the store. I never grab a cart, just a basket. If it doesn't fit in the basket, it's not coming home with me.

    • @lisadoyle2284
      @lisadoyle2284 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      This really hit home with me. I'm disabled, don't have a license, and it's incredibly hard to get groceries home. I buy a lot of my toiletries online from Walmart because if you spend more than 35 dollars you don't pay shipping. When I talk to people about how hard it is to get around, they always say "well, why don't you ride the bus", like it's so easy. Not only do you have to deal with the weather, but it's incredibly hard to carry groceries from a bus stop to your house. Most people don't even like unloading groceries at their house, from their car!

    • @CarFreeKC
      @CarFreeKC 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@lisadoyle2284 Yes! This is also me. I am thankful to live in an urban area with a grocery store two blocks away and bus stops across the street these days. It is very expensive so I don't do a lot of shopping there but I do go there for eggs and milk periodically. I have been getting Walmart grocery delivery which I am really loving when combined with Ibotta. I am a poor college student so often shopping for the best deals and giving only a little thought to what i'll actually use these things for. I search for whatever I need on walmart and then sort by price lowest to highest. I was able to land a bunch of Goya canned beans and some other Goya products for 10 cents each. Then I got 4 pound bags of dried pinto beans for 50 cents and 2 pound bags of black beans for 25 cents. Too good of a deal to pass up! I also got a 20 pound bag of jasmine rice for $1!!!!! Right before the pandemic, I got four 1 pound bags of pistachios for $1 each. I was so happy to have those! Last week, I got a huuuuge amount of those full size hershey bars that come in a 6 pack FOR TEN CENTS! I bought a ton and have been giving them to neighbors and delivery people. Such a great treat and perfect if you're looking forward to a bonfire or smores party this Summer! I also combine deals with ibotta and get other free things. Right now, ibotta has a rebate for some cereal snax things for $2 and walmart has them on sale for $2 so I'll be getting all 5 of those just to have because I'll always need late night snacks at some point. Too good of a deal to pass up!

  • @juliehadley8336
    @juliehadley8336 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    It might sound strange to some people but to be honest I prefer frozen broccoli to fresh. It just tastes better to me. Most of my veggies are from the freezer aisle. Thanks for all your tips, Christine!

  • @AnEmbarrassmentofBooks
    @AnEmbarrassmentofBooks 3 ปีที่แล้ว +241

    Everytime someone says to me that potatoes aren't a healthy food, I challenge them to show me someone who got fat from eating whole potatoes (not chips, not mashed with butter and milk, etc.). Seriously, the fear of potatoes in this country is crazy!

    • @heathersmeather
      @heathersmeather 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Agreed. My family loves when we have baked potatoes and salad for dinner. They also like this sausage & kale potato soup I make.

    • @lovelife7343
      @lovelife7343 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Yep year's ago high school wrestling teams used potatoes to get to the lower weight class before a tournament. People have demonized the poor little potato and then stuff there faces with ice cream and chips.

    • @psymompa
      @psymompa 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      I love potatoes. My family has them almost daily. None of us are overweight and our numbers are healthy. They are also great at filling you up. We put potatoes in our veggie curries, tacos, sub it for rice, etc.

    • @mozelac
      @mozelac 3 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      This actually stems from capitalism, potatoes are the easiest food to grow and live off of, potatoes have been known to save entire nations during famine because of how easy they grow. But you can't make money off of people who are growing their own foods.

    • @Sherilibrarian
      @Sherilibrarian 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Gimme all the potatoes! 🥔

  • @firstigloochick
    @firstigloochick 3 ปีที่แล้ว +124

    I’ve been able to cut $100 off my weekly grocery bill since I started watching your videos!! It has made my husband very happy 😆

    • @Sherilibrarian
      @Sherilibrarian 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Wow!! That's so cool!

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      WOW 😱that’s a huge savings! Congrats!!

    • @firstigloochick
      @firstigloochick 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@FrugalFitMom I was buying a lot of crap I didn’t need 😳🙈🤦‍♀️

    • @sadieelliott9080
      @sadieelliott9080 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@FrugalFitMom WATER WITH REAL LEMON 🍋… REAL LIME… REAL ORANGE 🍊 REAL BERRIES… NO SUGAR OR ARTIFICIAL SWEETENER… SOOO MUCH BETTER FOR YOUR GUT HEALTH & BODY THAN CRYSTAL LIGHT… PLEASE READ THE INGREDIENTS… ARTIFICIALLY FLAVORED… ARTIFICIAL COLORS… ARTIFICIALLY SWEETENED… A PACK OF CHEMICALS!
      💜✝️💜

    • @dianasimplifies
      @dianasimplifies 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@sadieelliott9080 I agree might as well drink coke. I didn’t want to be the one to say it lol 😆

  • @YT4Me57
    @YT4Me57 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    Everything that you listed is how I was raised and I still practice today at age 66. My parents were Depression era babies and fresh fruit was their children's "candy" and snacks. We ate carrots as we watched Bugs Bunny cartoons and grapes, bananas and oranges were in abundance in our home. The grocery list didn't include sodas, chips, packaged snacks, etc. I shop in Whole Foods for fresh organic produce and products because I save on not buying all that other stuff. Every time I have bloodwork done or get a checkup, I get a thumbs up. No hypertension, no high cholesterol, etc. Do I eat frivolous things? (cake, cookies, etc) SURE (well, not sodas)! I just don't, as a rule, bring them in the house. They're for the most part, an "outside treat". Something that I indulge in at a restaurant when I'm with friends. That's all I got.

    • @anitas5817
      @anitas5817 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Haha that’s all anyone needs!

  • @amybarthel479
    @amybarthel479 3 ปีที่แล้ว +66

    When my kids were young, those 2-3 hours by myself at Target was a mini vacation.

    • @jonihaworth7016
      @jonihaworth7016 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yes, mama. 💕🙌

    • @kimbarbeaureads
      @kimbarbeaureads 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      That's why they have a Starbucks in most of them. For moms to sip while strolling.

  • @TheMeshal33
    @TheMeshal33 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Can you please do a $65 grocery haul and meal plan for a week. 🙏🏻 I miss those so much

  • @karenkouns577
    @karenkouns577 3 ปีที่แล้ว +29

    To say I needed this content is an understatement. For years I ate nothing but whole foods, but recently have fell off the wagon. This has been a wake up call. Thanks for sharing!

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Glad it was helpful!

    • @christinatareski8882
      @christinatareski8882 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      This is why I love Christine so much-real advice, no gimmicks, gentle nudges to make a better choice

  • @ammerslo2632
    @ammerslo2632 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I love that you give these tips. Im doing the meal planning from your video & cut my bill in 1/2! Never ran out of food. Had everything i needed. Felt great. Less stress. TFS

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You did the work so great job!

  • @heathertackett7956
    @heathertackett7956 3 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Kroger had strawberries for $1 and grapes for .77 a pound.. My Breyer's ice cream money bought 5lbs of fruit! Lol

  • @richardschmidt2430
    @richardschmidt2430 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Whole foods is the way! Good job, girl! :) Dawn @ Rich & Dawn in MN :)

  • @victoriajohnson1117
    @victoriajohnson1117 3 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    You're right! Once I stopped drinking sodas, diet & reg, I drank one at a BBQ recently, & it tasted like I was drinking sugared chemicals, which, infact, I was, however, I used to live on them before. It's amazing how a person's tastes changes once they begin eating whole foods & drinking mostly water.

  • @jenniferhowansky7496
    @jenniferhowansky7496 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I make my own yogurt in my instant pot! My kids who hate yogurt love it! Super easy and super cheap and we know what’s in it! Add fruit, granola, honey or whatever you want! Super cheap and quick breakfast!

    • @anitas5817
      @anitas5817 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh my goodness I love my instant pot yogurt!! So easy and so good. And so much healthier and inexpensive!!!!

  • @AB2B
    @AB2B 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I generally made any "treats", bought generic and cheap bulk, always shopped with a list, stretched chicken 3 ways and bulked with pasta, beans, and veggies. As the kids got older, they were allowed one treat within a specific price range. Had no idea my friends had no clue how to do these things. I wonder how many of us learned from moms and grandmothers, and if others didn't.

  • @taylormoss6021
    @taylormoss6021 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Not a mom yet or married lol but as a recent college grad living alone I can also attest to what she’s saying! Learn to do more with the basics & aim for wholesome eating. (Doesn’t mean bland!)

  • @juneleicht1261
    @juneleicht1261 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Making sweets from scratch is so much more affordable. They also taste better. You don't have to bake to entire batch either, you can freeze cookie dough. I shape them in balls and freeze them on the baking sheet then put them in an air tight container and label it with the type of dough, the temp. to bake it and how long. Works great everytime.

  • @AtlantaHospiceRN
    @AtlantaHospiceRN 3 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Frugal snacks: Popcorn from scratch (not the microwave kind), and home made potato chips are yummy.

  • @kimberlyheinz4490
    @kimberlyheinz4490 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Great tips! I stopped buying all snack food when my kids were little to save money. I now have 3 teenage boys, they eat leftovers or a sandwich or yogurt or bagel for a snack. I think you could break any budget with snacks alone and they usually don't fill you up or provide much nutrition. Potatoes are also very filling and have many nutrients!

  • @sabrinawindham
    @sabrinawindham 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I love your channel ❤️ I had to learn all this on my own. I wish I had someone who knew this stuff when I was 20 something. But it's nice to know I'm not the only one. It's great that you teach it others who are struggling.

  • @daniellebraga2880
    @daniellebraga2880 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I like the True Lemon drink packets. I add them to Spindrift bubbly water when I’m craving soda😍

  • @amandawilliams5219
    @amandawilliams5219 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I'm just sitting here patting myself on the back because I already do these! Like you, we were young and poor with little kids 20 years ago. I learned how to stretch a dollar until it squealed at the grocery store. 😂 Love your videos!

  • @alilbitoferika1367
    @alilbitoferika1367 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    So TRUE! I've done this and only buy chips and soda for parties and when i have extra money for my grocery budget.

  • @annemariem7951
    @annemariem7951 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Spuds are the way to go - from an Irish girl! Thanks for all the tips, really good and sensible!

  • @Willettee
    @Willettee 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Balanced meals look pretty on my plate. Frugal grocery purchases keeps more of my money in my pocket. 🙂

  • @nesadcruz7840
    @nesadcruz7840 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It is not just the money you save at the grocery store but the money you are not going to spend on future health problems if you cut out unhealthy foods that should prompt wiser choices. Good tips.

  • @DB-ik8hn
    @DB-ik8hn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Oatmeal tip: oatmeal with frozen fruit No need to add sugar and you can add as much fruit as you like.

  • @deannastevens1217
    @deannastevens1217 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yep. Hot grains for breakfast. One eyed sailors. Homemade cheese egg patties for breakfast sandwiches, Silver dollar pancakes made extra... so you can use them for sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, one eyed sailors. Fruits and Vegetables, Home made meals (A few good recipes go a long long way!)!! This is a great video. I've been spouting this stuff for years. I live on a very small budget and make it work to help others as well. Life is Good!!
    Thank you for such good video content.

  • @sbethel14
    @sbethel14 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Dude. Eggs and toast. I could eat that every. single. day. Some days I add fruit, some days bacon, like today. That is definitely my go to breakfast.

  • @helenhuskins4231
    @helenhuskins4231 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Summertime gardens also help the grocery budget. Nothing like fresh backyard produce! Love your videos !

  • @selenadansfield1305
    @selenadansfield1305 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Got a deck or a balcony? Start growing your own produce. There are also mini-peppers you can grow, mini-carrots you can grow and more. Lettuce, and more.

  • @familyof5quicktips514
    @familyof5quicktips514 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Love this! Thanks for sharing!!! Grocery pickup and delivery is the best thing ever!!! 😀I have 3 kids and it makes life soooo much easier! Also, I agree, we save money by not buying sodas and junk food!! 😃👍🏻

  • @marque235
    @marque235 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thumbs up for the Mos Def cameo! And Frugal Fit Mom!

  • @smartin5888
    @smartin5888 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I also dilute the drink mixes. Sometimes I throw a tea bag in my glass for a fruity tea.

  • @jennahenry8719
    @jennahenry8719 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I absolutely love your videos. Been trying to use a lot of your tips. My husband and son are picky eaters so its hard to find food they'll like. My daughter usually eats what I give her. Finally after watching a bunch of your videos I got myself an instant pot. So excited and nervous to try it out. Thank you for inspiring me and so many other people.

  • @mckinleymurphy57
    @mckinleymurphy57 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    The nerdy clips that show up in your videos are basically my favorite thing!

  • @camiele4
    @camiele4 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I absolutely agree, I recently noticed how just a juicy apple was much more fulfilling than any chips laying around my house.

  • @carlyc5355
    @carlyc5355 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Totally appreciate this video! I heard something once, I'm sure you have heard it too! "If your great-grandmother can't recognize it, you don't need it!" Whole foods is the way to go for sure!

  • @codependentk2888
    @codependentk2888 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I just had to pop in and say I got a kick out of watching your son pop in and out of the shot over your shoulder. It was so cute. I do appreciate the reminder to get healthier foods and the tips on ways to get them cheaper. Thanks for all the great content.

  • @Facefuzzandfancyfree
    @Facefuzzandfancyfree 3 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    I always tell my friends to shop the perimeter of the store where all the produce, meat, and dairy is located. I dive into the middle for whole grains, beans, and rice but avoid the high sugar isles. It saves me so so much money. Also leave the husband at home. You know he’s going to be throwing chips and cookies into the cart when he comes along😂😂😂

    • @traceydufault297
      @traceydufault297 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes absolutely my hubby same way

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Always leave the husband (and teenagers) at home😂

    • @arlenaadams7514
      @arlenaadams7514 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks for the how to shop smart in the supermarket tips.

    • @MyLady22
      @MyLady22 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes! My bf will spend $100 easily on condiments and snacks!

    • @00Temporary00
      @00Temporary00 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I have a theory that my husband intentionally throws random items in the cart so that I won’t ask him to go with me anymore.
      But that theory was shaken a little when he went on an unsupervised trip to Costco and came back with the biggest box of Swiss Miss I have ever seen. We were drinking that stuff for more than two winters!

  • @sierrabarrow718
    @sierrabarrow718 3 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    My bf and I do not live together, this month we’ve decided to do a “no-spend month”. With a few exceptions. Obviously we still have to pay our bills, and unfortunately neither of our jobs are close by enough to ride our bikes, so we do need to buy gas. For groceries we normally spend easily 100$ each week individually. I know it’s insane but it seems like every time I go to the store it’s 100$. And every week when I clean out my refrigerator, I throw away so much food. So we put a budget of 40$ each week individually. Just cutting back that alone, I’ve been saving so much money. And I’ve been eating healthier, because I rather buy fresh peppers/ cucumbers or carrots for a snack than one bag of chips that’s gonna be gone in one sitting. I also don’t eat out, so I’m not wasting all my food. My bank account has been loving this month.

    • @meganvalek2690
      @meganvalek2690 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Good for you guys! Sounds like you need to extend at least the grocery portion of the month past the end of the month!

    • @sierrabarrow718
      @sierrabarrow718 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@meganvalek2690 we are! Also because I recently just got two raises at work and my paychecks have almost doubled, so I’ve decided to keep it at 40$ and put the money I just got from my raises into a high interest savings account. Honestly having a budget for groceries really teaches you to Experiment by cooking at home. And it is healthier. And it’s just so nice not feeling guilty when grocery shopping. And then looking at my bank account that 75% of the time has less than 30$ in it. It’s very stress relieving.

    • @meganvalek2690
      @meganvalek2690 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@sierrabarrow718 hell yeah! I'm so proud of you guys! 😊

    • @sierrabarrow718
      @sierrabarrow718 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@meganvalek2690 thank you! I wasn’t always this smart with finances. @frugalfitmom has taught me so much about finances, do you follow her finance channel as well?

    • @meganvalek2690
      @meganvalek2690 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@sierrabarrow718 You know....I don't, actually. I was really stupid with money when I first moved out of my folks' house and it landed homeless for a little while, so since then I had to get good with money because there wasn't another option. Now I'm 3 years away from having my house and solar panels paid off! Woo hoo!

  • @GaryAndHeatherBush
    @GaryAndHeatherBush 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I had
    A bad
    Experience
    😂😂 hubby and I quote that all the time. Love your tv/movie clips. Fantastic tips and all very true. When I spend $30 on produce it lasts several days. When I buy $30 of junk it’s gone in 1 and the kids are cranky and complaining of hunger!

  • @stephnoble6066
    @stephnoble6066 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’m really liking this video. So true about eating food that is non processed: one of your best videos lately. Love from Australia

  • @thebiggshomesteadkitchen
    @thebiggshomesteadkitchen 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love this video! The frozen food hack was my fave. There’s just 2 of us at home now. It’s nice to use a few berries for a smoothie and know the rest won’t go to waste. We use 1/2 a bag of veggies for dinner and save the other half for another time. Saves food from going in the trash.

  • @winterlighthome
    @winterlighthome 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Leave the skins on your potatoes when you make mashed potatoes. Much healthier! So much of the nutrient value of potatoes is in the skin.

    • @katiebergeron7384
      @katiebergeron7384 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      My mother in law won't eat my " weird" potatoes because I leave peels on no matter how I cook them. Ain't nobody got time to peel potatoes. 😆

    • @momentsformoms9467
      @momentsformoms9467 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Yes I prefer them this way & a bit lumpy too. Everyone thinks I’m weird but it’s so good,& healthier.

    • @johnballard6725
      @johnballard6725 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Leave potato skins on when you boil or roast them as it's better for you and ok less effort!

  • @annswann1941
    @annswann1941 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Christine you are such an inspiration; LOVE your tips. I grew up with frugality so have always shopped and cooked similar to you. But, like you, realized early on that not everyone knows this stuff. So many easy ways to save $$ on basics so that we have $$ for extras! 💕

  • @heatherstevens3036
    @heatherstevens3036 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    We are eating through our pantry after I sent your video to my husband!! I have spent $40 this month!

  • @user-no2bp4mn5i
    @user-no2bp4mn5i 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    You're right! The shopping carts we see nowadays FULL of junk, even dangerous for one's health, no one talks about those so called "foods" being toxic. I wish more people could read some labels for a change, do it for yourselves and your families, it will save you $ in hospital bills as well.

  • @annawebb1552
    @annawebb1552 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Christine, I love your videos and find all your content very inspiring and refreshing. I’m a Mom to three young kids and I would love a video on how you handle/ration snacks for kiddos. They eat whatever I cook but seem to want to snack constantly also! I don’t buy a lot of processed foods so it’s all good stuff they’re getting but I’m not trying to blow my grocery budget on fruit, cheese and crackers!

  • @lisaolson1345
    @lisaolson1345 3 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I just found a pound of grapes for .39 today,great deal and full of nutrition.

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Good find!

    • @happycook6737
      @happycook6737 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You can easily freeze grapes. Wash, remove stems, pat dry (must be dry) Lay on cookie tray separated. Freeze and transfer to zip lock bags

  • @AFrugalLifeTheChannel
    @AFrugalLifeTheChannel 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Such a simple tip, but so true, I shop the edges of the supermarket as much as possible, that gives me fruits and veggies, dairy, bread and meat before i waste money on prepackaged and snacks.

  • @kellyquinn1468
    @kellyquinn1468 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    So glad I watched this one today, it’s different than what I thought it would be.

  • @heatherkandel856
    @heatherkandel856 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Christine! I always love your videos. Those scenes with the potatoes are classic and hilarious. 😁

  • @nunusky3942
    @nunusky3942 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I started making our dessert at home. We only buy chips for special occasions. Been watching your videos for a while so I'm saving so much. I think last week i spend maybe 60 and most of that was on meat for the next 2-3 weeks. I buy my beans in a bag and make them myself. I found local people who grow fruit and vegetables and sale them at a good price. Every tip helps

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Great job at reducing your grocery bill!

  • @ThatSimpleLife61
    @ThatSimpleLife61 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I have gone mostly to frozen veggies in the past few months because they taste amazing in the air fryer, and they don't go bad like the broccoli in the produce drawer of my fridge does (because I'm too tired to prep and cook fresh broccoli!). :)

    • @deborahadcock978
      @deborahadcock978 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Which veggies do you cook in the air fryer?Never tried it.

    • @ThatSimpleLife61
      @ThatSimpleLife61 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@deborahadcock978 Frozen broccoli, frozen cauliflower, frozen green beans, fresh asparagus, and fresh carrot 'fries' are amazing.

    • @Finchersfarmstead
      @Finchersfarmstead 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes same here majority of the time when I buy fresh it goes bad because I don't prep it right away

    • @susannebemis3311
      @susannebemis3311 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I love frozen corn!

    • @mbs8001
      @mbs8001 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yesss! 🙌🏻 my kids now only eat frozen veggies, prepped in the air frier. They actually beg for them. It’s amazing, and takes literally 1min of my time to put them in and toss once.

  • @Faithfulfollowermama
    @Faithfulfollowermama 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love the powdered lemonade drink packs like that! I have a soda stream so I carbonate my water and then put it in there. It's my treat

  • @jackieo2403
    @jackieo2403 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video!! These tips not only help keep costs down, they promote a healthier lifestyle- saving me from illnesses caused by all the processed "foods". Potato Power!!!! That will save me money on health care costs too! Win-Win-Win. Thanks

  • @hilo5901
    @hilo5901 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I spent 2-3 hours at the library when my children were small. Yes it was a spa! Totally delightful and free! We saved our [limited] food for our children, ex husband liked to eat; I didn’t eat too much. I could get by on simple foods but I didn’t know the tips I know now!!

  • @ShadowIsSnarky
    @ShadowIsSnarky 3 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    My husband would divorce me if I stopped buying his soda. Lol but I budget for it. Because it's the one thing he wants always from the store. Hardly ever asks for anything else, including specific meals. So I make room.

    • @vintagechick
      @vintagechick 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      My husband drinks two diet Pepsi’s per day No coffee tea or juice …..cheaper than coffee

    • @mcsweet6870
      @mcsweet6870 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I agree

    • @emilyr1702
      @emilyr1702 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It just comes down to not going out of control. It's Ok to buy some junk food. I am also one of those ppl that need the fizz in my life lol.

    • @lisaliberati3251
      @lisaliberati3251 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      My hubby too. I can't break him of the habit.

  • @denisecurry7472
    @denisecurry7472 3 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    U know what is a shame is that the food that is good is so expensive. Plus people need to learn how to eat leftovers

    • @emilyr1702
      @emilyr1702 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah, I find it sort of expensive to eat healthy. Typically what isn't expensive isn't. And I've noticed lately my kids aren't eating leftovers much. 😑

    • @simonalyneenderz3247
      @simonalyneenderz3247 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Leftovers to me are the best thing ever. Tell that to my Mother!

    • @jhwilliams6550
      @jhwilliams6550 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Turn leftovers into a new meal. Ex:leftover spaghetti sauce can be changed to sloppy joes. Leftover chicken and rice makes great chicken pot pie

    • @sortathesame8701
      @sortathesame8701 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think you will find that if you really compare prices, it is far less expensive to buy fresh food! You can get a ton of potatoes for the price of a bag of Lays chips! And the flour, eggs, etc to make pancakes is also much cheaper than purchasing pancake mix! Chicken, pork, hamburger are all far less expensive than purchasing fast food or buying them frozen! Buy on sale and freeze things. Fresh fruit can be quite expensive though, so try to catch some of it frozen and on sale. I love to buy plain yogurt and add a drop of honey and some chopped fresh fruit, far tastier than the already mixed kind!

  • @girpode157
    @girpode157 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great recommendations!!! Started doing this thinking I’m willing to spend more…and realized I spent less and ate way way healthier!

  • @frugallyretired9960
    @frugallyretired9960 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    My husband started shopping alone during the pandemic for me. He had a hard time in the beginning but always stuck to the list since he didn't have a clue (I was available by cell phone for any questions). I am somewhat disabled so now we both go (he worries about me) and he is familiar with the store. To cut down on time (he is slow and I zip on through) I cut the list in half by store side. He takes one side (the easiest side for him) and I take the other. We meet in the cheese aisle (middle of store). This keeps him from buying junk as he is too consumed with finding things on the list. 😁 I found this works best for us. We do buy one snack each biweekly. Great video. We had a tight budget (like most) in our early years. Have a wonderful week.

    • @momentsformoms9467
      @momentsformoms9467 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That would be nice. I do it myself or order delivery (which I prefer both bc when my sons dad comes with me he doesn’t let me leave his side,also makes me push the cart & then yells at me for not being able to keep up bc he can weave between people & I can’t since I have the cart. 🙄). I make my list by aisle...start at the beginning which is produce then make my way down to the end which is dairy. This way I’m not walking in circles to get everything.

  • @haileybrewer3938
    @haileybrewer3938 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love this video!! This is definitely something my family does. I had to feed a fam of 4 on 150 for 2 weeks. We had to be creative. We never bought packaged drinks at all. We just made sweet tea or had water. We also make hot breakfast instead of pop tarts or cereal. You definitely get creative when you don’t have a lot of money. I’m a single mom now but my income is a lot better but I still budget just like I used to. :)

  • @leighdegenhardt485
    @leighdegenhardt485 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I've cut my grocery costs so much since being in lockdown and not walking the aisles, where so much food was flying off the shelves into my cart when my head was turned! LoL!!!

  • @nicoles7126
    @nicoles7126 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Ice cream vs chicken... 🤔 Yeah sorry, I'm keeping the ice cream! Hahaha I do love the idea but that's a funny comparison. All love to you, Christine!

  • @j2jenison
    @j2jenison 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Potatoes are rated as the most satiating food...and thankfully they are also one of the cheapest!

    • @marilynpeppers1356
      @marilynpeppers1356 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree. Sometimes I pick up a couple of plain baked potatoes at Wendy’s. I’ll eat the potato plain and a very small portion of whatever protein I’ve cooked for the family.
      Makes maintaining a weight loss less difficult. And I don’t seem to get hungry.

  • @loriolsen5785
    @loriolsen5785 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Christine, thanks for doing this video. Food budgets are getting tight. We need to focus our dollars on nutrition over "feeding our tongues." Please keep doing these cost-cutting videos. Also, I am trying to develop more weekly menus that use a lot of the same ingredients, such as buying a bag of potatoes or carrots or whatever, and creative ways to use those ingredients in a week to feed us and not waste anything. I think that concept is becoming more important now with food costs rising and less disposable income to spend because of inflation all around. Looking forward to your next video!

  • @amy2284
    @amy2284 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Love your list😀. I do make some “treats “ like blueberry 🫐 muffins or pumpkin muffins - but using flour and sugar with these fruits/canned veggies is a good way to have some stuff without eating all the preservatives and paying the money

  • @33snowgal
    @33snowgal 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I also love how much more special soda (I would call it pop) and chips are! We have four kids and each one gets to pick snacks for their birthday- my budget can easily do that four times a year 😁

  • @ariels6284
    @ariels6284 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best budget top I learned was to stop looking at expiration dates for things I was freezing. The time line is for fresh.
    Also, as soon as we could I started buying everything I could in bulk. It's been so helpful.

  • @anetzband1383
    @anetzband1383 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love the tips and practice them a lot already. Still buy pop for hubby, though. It's his treat.

  • @soraydarodriguez6306
    @soraydarodriguez6306 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Love all your videos and with your advice and One cute couponer I have been able to get out of debt

  • @nancybrewer8494
    @nancybrewer8494 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My DH and I have been on the 1974 version of Weight Watchers for 12 weeks. He has lost 30 pounds, I have lost 20. I have been eating three fruit servings a day and about 3-4 servings of vegetables, mostly fresh and frozen. Eating no processed foods is definitely healthier for us!

  • @emazey5044
    @emazey5044 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I get fresh produce but find I just can't eat it all so there is waste. Will have to get frozen and see how it goes. I'm thinking I'll eat healthier, and more variety. And no stress about food waste! Thanks for the tips and reminders!

  • @psymompa
    @psymompa 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great video. Makes sense to eat a whole foods diet. Try to eat items with as few ingredients as possible.
    Our local grocery store will mark down produce in the morning so can buy discounted produce daily. You just have to use that produce in the next day or two.

  • @danahess9329
    @danahess9329 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Lol I use that line "I HAD a bad experience" from the Italian Job too

  • @jillhealy8835
    @jillhealy8835 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Tip:: drop a bay leaf in the top of your dry goods (containers of flour, pasta, rice, crackers, dog food) a d you will never get moths or worms. You can also put a Bayleaf on each shelf of your pantry or food cabinets to keep them away from all of your snacks… works like a charm!!!😊

  • @amixeblu
    @amixeblu 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Standard. Hard boiled eggs for a snack. We keep them on hand constantly. It's super easy and so cheap!

    • @mandlerparr1
      @mandlerparr1 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Same, I buy the 5 dozen boxes and boil some every few days.

  • @karasquire
    @karasquire 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I use that quote from the Italian Job all the time!!

  • @melissazabower339
    @melissazabower339 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I do frozen veg because I have severe arthritis and find prepping difficult. I do a lot of processed food for that same reason. But I do try to avoid the "snacks" 90% of the time, which certainly does save money!

  • @andreajohnston7479
    @andreajohnston7479 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love anything that saves money on the groceries!!!

  • @cookwithdrbrooke
    @cookwithdrbrooke 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Love this! Our household has 2 adults and, though we do usually keep some ice cream stocked, we get it in bulk. Chips-wise we get plain pretzels (much cheaper!) and make our own dips (hummus, tzatziki, baba ganoush, spicy peanut sauce) so they are more delicious and nutritious and affordable than flavored chips.

  • @kathyk9519
    @kathyk9519 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Potatoes are a great side! If you watch the stuff you put on them. As for drinks I make ice tea with very little sugar, juice with carbonated water, those packets you mentioned and of course water! My grocery bill used to be horrible. Then I started doing a healthy grocery haul. Thanks for video.

  • @scrappinorchid5498
    @scrappinorchid5498 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I found clearanced naan at Walmart today. I was so excited 😂

    • @HM-to8rp
      @HM-to8rp 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Grocery outlet has naan for $1.99

  • @2Beldam
    @2Beldam 3 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    For us it’s the fresh, whole grains, “healthy” foods that break our budget - not the snack food (but we are a family with severe food allergies & literally every member has to have a different unique speciality diet - no one can eat the same meal) - but I realize we are an odd case (like we can’t get any frozen fruits or veggies because they are all packed on shared lines/same facility as legumes 🤷‍♀️) it is really interesting to see how other families shop & save even if we can’t do any of the tips ❤️

    • @kaitlynlately
      @kaitlynlately 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I wonder how much this differs by location as well. I probably pay a lot more for cherries than someone in Washington where they say they're grown.

    • @2Beldam
      @2Beldam 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@kaitlynlately yes! Exactly, we are in Minnesota and a bag of cherries here (not even organic) was $9 at our store 🤯

    • @morganchapman2150
      @morganchapman2150 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@2Beldam I'm in Florida and at one of my grocery stores a 1lb. package of strawberries was $5 and the 2lb. pack was $8 🤦‍♀️

    • @2Beldam
      @2Beldam 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yikes!! That’s so expensive. So you feel my pain too 😢 So pricey to eat “healthy” especially if you cant substitute one fruit for another or fresh for canned or frozen (we are in that boat - family members have a very strict limit diet)

    • @morganchapman2150
      @morganchapman2150 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@2Beldam yes! My kids LOVE fruits, and I wish I could buy them more. I always go for apples and oranges because they dont go bad so fast. I have a very limited food budget because I rely on EBT and I only go to the grocery store once a month.

  • @jlbnerdy
    @jlbnerdy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you! I needed this reminder before I make our grocery list for a 2 week stock up. We verrrrrry rarely buy chips because I always feel like I'm ripped off with price vs what's in the bag 🤦‍♀️

    • @FrugalFitMom
      @FrugalFitMom  3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      True dat

    • @jlbnerdy
      @jlbnerdy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@FrugalFitMom ok, I must also admit I just ordered a whole bunch of ice cream from whole foods but it was 40% off with my prime membership, so that's a sale find, right? 😆

    • @happycook6737
      @happycook6737 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I got my family to stop chips when they saw the price per pound of chips vs fruit vs meat!

  • @allisonsigler8051
    @allisonsigler8051 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I think utilizing your freezer at home to stock up on basics helps cut the budget because if you get a bunch of meat when it's on sale, you then can pull it out whenever you want and then just make simple sides that don't cost a lot and make a huge batch to make multiple meals. That's how I went from $400-500 a month for a single person down to $275 a month

  • @jellybeansbud3610
    @jellybeansbud3610 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I’m with you on the drink mixes. I use the great value brand and mix a packet with 32 ounces of water cuz I don’t like strong drinks. Another thing you can do, is we still get juice but cut it with a bit of water. You stretch it a bit, take in less liquid sugar, but still you have a (slightly) healthier flavored beverage

    • @wennw2711
      @wennw2711 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      a better idea is just to cut the fruit and throw it into water. You will have a flavored water as well as fresh fruit full of vitamins and fibers.

  • @kimberlytl6127
    @kimberlytl6127 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I love this! My kids/hubby prefer for me to use the cheap quick oats & doctor it up rather than the flavored oatmeal.

  • @BrendaJBarNett
    @BrendaJBarNett 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great tips! I've known families that couldn't put a meal on the table unless it came from a mix...mixes are great time savers and I use them from time to time, but literally these people didn't know how to fix mac n cheese from scratch, or pancakes, etc. There has to be trade off and certainly budget can be a driving force💕

    • @momentsformoms9467
      @momentsformoms9467 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s me. I wasn’t ever taught how to cook. Not sure my mom knew how either but she also worked a lot. I work a lot as well and have to keep the home clean by myself ( I mean my sons dad won’t even pick up his garbage or dishes-& after 11 years I finally just stopped so we have dishes & garbage all over the place now but I still vacuum,& clean everything else). I’m physically & mentally exhausted and have no time to even try to learn to cook unfortunately even though I’d love to & do try.

  • @MamaCeleste
    @MamaCeleste 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    My Mama was watching with me and brought up using a mandolin to make homemade potato chips. Three big russets yields a considerable amount of crunchy deliciousness. Add salt and splash of vinegar while hot out of oil for salt and vinegar chips on a budget. Between you and my Mama I get the best tips!

  • @thebudgetfinn3548
    @thebudgetfinn3548 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    It takes a while to adjust to not drinking a lot of soda. I switched to sparkling water that I make at home with a SodaStream. Cheaper, healthier and so good! It quenches your thirst so much better.

  • @ElaineAMalec
    @ElaineAMalec 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You have really helped me to be more mindful about my grocery budget. Plus, you are so darn funny! Lol

  • @melissacarlson6192
    @melissacarlson6192 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Enjoyed this video! I decided this year to not buy snack items for my kids and make things instead and it really saved a lot! I found an easy no
    bake oatmeal cookie that I keep on hand, otherwise apple or banana for snack. I even bought the cheapest snacks I could find and it still was amazing to see the grocery budget go down. Also WIC with little kids has been great to have in seasons! Saves me at least $100 a month.

  • @sylviametos4365
    @sylviametos4365 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the great tips. It's also a good idea to go to the grocery store with a LIST! That way, it will be less tempting to go down the soda, cookie, and candy aisles! Just sayin"!

  • @EmeryShae
    @EmeryShae 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Definitely my number one tip! Now that I have more money to spend, I do buy more of the other items, but probably 40% of my cart is fresh produce each week.

  • @kitziewitty7281
    @kitziewitty7281 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Okay, that lavender color shirt is your color, you should definitely wear that color. Great video. Thanks for sharing.

  • @jkay606
    @jkay606 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Potatoes combined with many different (simple) things, make complete proteins. Potatoes are awesome and cheaper than a protein bar when you combine your foods right.🥔

  • @judithvigorito4548
    @judithvigorito4548 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    It’s not food that costs me at the grocery store, it’s toilet paper, garbage bags, pet food, cat litter, - non food items. Even things of good quality I buy at dollar tree, dollar general or in bulk. I shop circulars, clearance, digital coupons and only buy what I need, and produce in season, - ocd about sticking to my list lol , snacks, ice cream, soda not on any list. I make my own iced tea, coffee cakes, cobblers from scratch. It’s still very hard to get that shopping list down. A lot of your suggestions are how I buy/eat/cook. But there’s always something to learn. Thanks from a senior on a fixed income!

  • @ruthvolk8340
    @ruthvolk8340 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are right on!