When to shop – get the best deals

The cost of fast food can add up, and it’s not always the healthiest option. Cooking at home can save you money, but shopping wisely is key.

Here’s how to make your grocery trips more cost-effective:

• Shop once a week for your main items to avoid unnecessary spending.
• Tuesdays are a great day to shop – supermarkets restock after the weekend, and aisles are quieter.
• Look for yellow sticker discounts – many supermarkets mark down fresh food in the evenings.
• Check ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates – some reduced items are still fine to freeze for later use.

Tip: Not all foods can be frozen, so check labels before storing items in your freezer.

Where to Shop – spend less & eat well

Being mindful of where and how you shop can make a huge difference to your budget. Here are some tips to get the most value for your money:

• Compare prices – Stick to one or two supermarkets that offer the best deals.
• Plan meals before shopping – Use the Eatwell Guide to create balanced meals.
• Write a shopping list – Avoid impulse purchases and stick to what you need.
• Cook in batches – Making larger portions saves time, energy, and money.
• Know your prices – Be aware of budget-friendly alternatives to well-known brands.
• Reduce plastic waste – Bring reusable bags to cut down on unnecessary packaging.

Food in the Community – Affordable & Accessible Options

Many communities have affordable food resources to support people on a budget. If you’re in Liverpool, where Ronan and I live, there are community food spaces that allow you to shop for essential items at low prices.

At the time of writing, some of these spaces allow members to join for £3.50 for 10 items or £5 for 15 items. Your local area may have similar schemes, so it’s worth checking.

If you need regular support with food shopping, organisations such as housing associations, support workers, and GPs may be able to help.