Saving In Your Soft Life: Being Nutritious on Budget

As a college student, trying to switch up your diet with the constant increase in grocery prices may be challenging. The U.S. Labor Department reported that the cost of food was up 13 percent and rose 0.7 percent higher in September 2022 alone. In 2022, the United States saw the most significant increase in consumer prices in 40 years, with a spike of 9.1 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the spike in grocery prices, it has been difficult for consumers to afford groceries for their families.

Fresh produce prices have been rising because extreme weather, such as droughts, has ruined farms in the United States. Climate change has also hit farmers hard, skyrocketing the prices of fruits and vegetables. There also have been issues with imported materials to take care of properly and plant product that has caused a decrease in products made.

Because of the increase in fresh produce prices, most families will buy cheaper grocery items. Unhealthy food items as of 2020 cost about $1.50 cheaper per day than healthy items, which is more affordable for most American families. The prime ingredients of unhealthy food items can be mass-produced, which causes them to be inexpensive.

We all want to be healthy, but it may seem impossible to afford as a college student. There are many ways to help combat growing prices that will allow you to eat healthily and save money. Here are some ways you can save in your soft life.

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Set a Food Budget

Budgeting in college may be tricky between buying toiletry items, clothes, outings, and more. If you need to buy groceries for yourself, having a budget for food will help you pay more attention to what you are adding to your shopping cart. As you set your budget, ensure it is realistic to what you need and can afford.

Plan Your Meals and Shop with a List

Think about what meals you want to make that will last a few days. What are the meals you can make with inexpensive ingredients? Plan out your meals before grocery shopping and make a list. Going to the grocery store without a list will result in you buying items you do not need or forgetting things you do. A plan will help you save money for other essential expenses when shopping.

Buy Frozen or Canned Produce

It is easy to overlook the fruits and vegetables in the can or frozen section, but they are more reasonable than other selections. Because frozen fruits and vegetables can last longer, purchasing them can save you money in the future. Canned food items also have a longer shelf life and are very convenient. However, read the labels on frozen and canned items, as some may contain a hefty amount of sugar, syrup, creams, or salt.

Try Store-Brand Items

Because of the different packaging, you may be more reluctant to purchase storebrand items. However, these items can cut down costs on your grocery bill. Storebrand items are usually the same as name-brand items. If you need clarification on an item, always compare the nutritional facts to what you are used to.