Food Shopping Tips

Before you go shopping:

• Do a stock take of your cupboards, fridge and freezer to see what you have.
• Plan meals you are going to have for the week and think about using up leftovers.
• Make a shopping list... and stick to it!
• Set yourself a target budget.
• Do not go shopping on an empty stomach.
• Remember to take your bags for life. The new carrier bag levy, increasing the cost of carrier bags to 25p, came into effect on 1 April. 

When you are shopping:

• Downshift your brands. If you normally buy premium brands, try shifting to a ‘regular’ brand or supermarket own brand.
• Buy loose items. Pre-packed and prepared items can often cost more. Save yourself some money and buy loose fruit and vegetables in the quantities you will use. 
• Look at price per unit. Do not assume 'offers' are good deals. Always look at the price per unit and work out which represents the best value for money.
• Don't be tempted by promotions. Check if end of aisle displays and promotions actually are good value for money and ask yourself if you really need them. Remember, it is only a good deal if you need it. 

At home:

• Check before throwing away. More than half the food we throw away can be eaten. Eating anything past the ‘use-by’ date can be risky, but ‘best before’ date is just for guidance. Use taste, sight and smell to decide but if in doubt - throw it out. 
• Reuse and recycle. Consider buying refills to cut down on price and waste. 

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