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How to Stretch Groceries This Month | Budget Shopping

Practical ways to make groceries go further in Canada: meal planning, smart substitutions, bulk buying, and simple cooking swaps to save money.

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How to Stretch Groceries This Month

February 11, 2025 by Finquest Financial

With food costs still elevated, many Canadian households are looking for ways to make every grocery dollar go further. The good news: small changes in planning, shopping, and cooking can add up to big monthly savings.

Plan Before You Shop

Start with a simple weekly meal plan and build your grocery list around it. Check your pantry and freezer first so you’re using what you already have. Shopping from a list reduces impulse buys and food waste.

Shop Smarter

Use flyers & digital coupons: Aggregator apps help you compare prices and find weekly deals without driving across town.
Buy store brands: In many categories, private‑label goods are nearly identical to brand names, at lower prices.
Time your shop: Many supermarkets mark down produce, meat, and bakery later in the evening — perfect for next‑day meals or freezing.

Cook Once, Eat Twice

Batch cooking turns one prep session into multiple meals. Roast extra vegetables, cook a larger batch of rice, or make a double portion of pasta sauce. Freeze portions to reduce last‑minute takeout.

Swap Ingredients, Keep the Flavour

Simple swaps add up: lentils in tacos instead of all beef, canned fish instead of fresh, or frozen vegetables instead of pricey out‑of‑season produce. You’ll keep meals balanced and costs down.

Use Your Freezer Like a Budget Tool

When a staple is on sale, buy extra and freeze it. Bread, cheese, herbs, and pre‑chopped fruit/veg all freeze well. Label with dates to avoid waste and rotate items to the front of your freezer.

When an Unexpected Expense Hits

If an urgent bill shows up the same week your budget is tight, short‑term borrowing can help you bridge the gap. Finquest Financial provides fast payday loans (up to $1,500) with secure e‑transfer funding and a straightforward application.

Apply Now

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