Healthy Eating on a Budget
At times, eating healthy can be a challenge and you may not have enough money or time to do so. In today's article, we want to share some tips to help you eat healthy on a tight budget. The next time you head to the grocery store, try some of these tips out:
- Use coupons (from stores, newspapers, and food brand websites) and look for sales when you shop
- Make a grocery list and STICK TO IT!
- Cut down on eating out and buy less junk food
- These foods have a lot of extra calories and little to no nutritional value
- Buy bigger or whole items -- such as a block of cheese over a bag of shredded cheese can save you money. You can save the extra food in the freezer until you are ready to eat it.
- Buy generic brands – they have the same amount of food at a cheaper price
- Frozen and canned fruit and vegetables are less expensive and last longer than fresh vegetables and fruits
Check the Unit Price
You always want the best bang for your buck – checking the unit price on items can help you buy more and save money in the long run. When comparing items in the store, the price label will have a “Unit Price” section. The Unit price will tell you how much you are getting for the unit (pound, ounce, or liter). In the example below, the 32 oz. yogurt is a better deal. You can buy the larger container and divide the yogurt into smaller containers at home.
Other Opportunities for Healthy Eating on a Budget
- There are farmers markets in practically every area of South Carolina where you can buy fresh produce, meat, and eggs for less. Go here to see a list of farmers markets, their locations, and times of operation.
- Some public libraries in South Carolina are hosting weekly farmers markets where anyone from the community can fill up a box of fresh produce from local farmers for $10. Customers can pay in cash or with SNAP EBT benefits. Contact your local library to see if they host a farmers market.
- SNAP recipients who purchase at least $5 with their SNAP EBT card at participating farmers market locations receive $10 in Healthy Bucks tokens to purchase additional fresh fruits and vegetables. Click here for a list of participating markets.
Note:
Budget ideas retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/19-ways-to-eat-healthy-on-a-budget
Unit Price information and image retrieved from: https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/healthy-eating-budget/shop-smart
Links checked 08/19/2021
