These days, we all feel the pinch when shopping for groceries. Prices are higher than they were last year. For example, items like eggs, chicken, and milk cost more than before. If you usually spend about ₹10,000 on groceries each month, you might now need about ₹11,000 to ₹13,000!

1. Make a Plan

Planning your shopping can really help you save money. Writing a grocery list can stop you from buying things you don't need. Plus, it encourages you to use what you already have at home, which helps cut down on waste. Did you know many families waste about 30% of the food they buy? Having a meal plan for the week (including dinners, breakfasts, and lunches) can also keep you from relying on takeout when you're busy. Just choose a few easy recipes, write down the ingredients, and you're ready to shop!

2. Look for Sales

If you're not already checking for sales and using coupons, now's the time to start! Most grocery stores have discounts on various items, and taking advantage of these sales can help you save money. Look out for "flash sales," which are special offers that last for just a few hours or occur on specific days of the week, often in the middle of the week. These are great opportunities to grab items at lower prices!

Also, keep an eye out for Buy-One-Get-One (BOGO) deals. These promotions can save you a lot, especially on essentials you regularly buy.

If you shop at a specific store often, consider signing up for their loyalty program to get special offers and updates about upcoming sales.

First, check what's on sale and add those items to your meal plan. This way, you stick to what you need without buying extra things just because they're discounted.

3. Check Prices per Unit

Unit prices can help you save more. These prices show you the cost of items based on size or weight, making it easier to compare different brands. You can find them next to the price tag on the shelf. For example, if you buy a bigger pack of rice, it might cost more upfront but be cheaper in the long run per kilogram.

4. Be Smart with Fruits and Veggies

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is essential, but they can sometimes be expensive. Look for ways to buy them at lower prices. For example, you can choose seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are usually cheaper and fresher. If you find a more expensive item, think about swapping it for something cheaper. For instance, use cabbage in salads instead of mixed greens or consider local varieties of vegetables that might be more affordable.

Make sure to use the fresh produce you buy, too! Start with delicate items so they don't spoil. You can add any veggies that are about to go bad into curries, dals, or rice dishes.

5. Rethink Convenience Foods

We often pay more for convenience items, like pre-cut vegetables or ready-made sauces. While these can save time, they can be pricier. Be smart about which convenience items you choose; sometimes, taking a little time to chop vegetables yourself can save you money and give you fresher meals.

6. Rethink Your Protein Choices

Protein-rich foods, like meat and fish, can take a big chunk of your budget. There are ways to save without cutting out meat entirely.

Consider more affordable protein sources, like lentils and chickpeas, in your meals. Trying a few vegetarian dishes each week can really help balance costs.

If you prefer to keep eating meat, think about choosing less expensive cuts. Ground meat or chicken thighs are often cheaper than chicken breasts. Look for deals at your local butcher or grocery store, and if you see a good sale, stock up and freeze what you don't use right away.

7. Check Expiration Dates

Growing up, you’d have seen that our parents or grandparents rarely wasted food. They taught us that many dates on food packages indicate freshness, not safety. Unless it's baby formula, most dates tell you when the food is at its best.

Always check these dates at the store and home to use older items first. You don't need to throw things away just because the date has passed; trust your judgment on what still looks and smells good.

8. Look in Your Pantry and Freezer

Before you head out to shop, check your pantry and freezer. Sometimes we think we have nothing to eat, but we might have plenty! Using what you already have can save you money and reduce waste. Try to create a meal using ingredients you forgot about.

9. Switch Up Your Grocery Store

We often stick to our favorite stores, but shopping around can lead to better prices. Some shops may have lower prices on certain items, so it can pay off to check out local markets or different grocery stores.

10. Buy in Bulk (When It Makes Sense)

Buying in bulk can save you money, but it's not always the best choice. Stores like Big Bazaar or local wholesale markets can have good deals, especially for staple foods. If you don't have the space to store large quantities, just buy larger sizes of your most used items at your regular grocery store.

Next time you go to the market, take a few mindful moments to plan what you need. A little thought can go a long way in keeping your shopping bill down. Make it fun! Walk around, look at different stalls, and talk with the vendors. You might find fresh fruits and veggies that catch your eye and inspire you to try new recipes.

When you pick your ingredients, think about the meals you can make—maybe a tasty curry or a colorful salad. And don't forget to take a last-minute look at your pantry before you head out; you might discover some ingredients that can turn into something delicious.

Along with the smells of fresh food that make your kitchen feel warm and inviting, the thought of rising costs or inflation should not spoil the goodness that comes from eating great homemade food.