In 2025, with prices of many grocery items continuing to rise, frugal shoppers are seeking ways to stretch their food budgets without compromising on nutrition or taste.
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Luckily, certain grocery items remain underpriced and offer excellent value. Here are some top picks that frugal shoppers should consider adding to their grocery lists this year.
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Fresh Produce Staples
Despite overall price increases, some fresh produce items remain budget-friendly. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, as well as bananas and cabbage, are often available at low prices year-round.
Shopping seasonally and locally can further reduce costs and provide fresher options.
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Frozen Vegetables
Frozen vegetables are not only convenient but also nutritionally comparable to fresh ones. According to the American Frozen Food Institute, the nutritional value of many frozen fruits and vegetables is generally equal to that of their fresh counterparts, and in some cases, it’s even higher due to nutrient degradation in fresh produce during storage.
Frozen vegetables are also cost-effective. For instance, at Walmart, a 12-ounce steamable bag of mixed vegetables is priced at just $0.98. Their long shelf life allows consumers to stock up during sales, reducing the frequency of grocery trips and minimizing food waste.
Legumes and Grains
Beans, lentils, rice and oats are pantry staples that offer high nutritional value at a low cost. These items are versatile, have long shelf lives and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them ideal for budget-conscious meal planning.
You can make filling soups and stews with beans and lentils. Then oats are also pretty versatile since you can prepare things like overnight oats and granola, or you can add them to baked goods.
Ground Meats
Ground meats like beef, chicken and turkey are kitchen staples that are both affordable and incredibly versatile. For frugal shoppers, ground meat is a smart buy because it can be used to create a variety of delicious meals, often without getting too pricey.
Compared with whole cuts like chicken breasts or steak, ground meats are often priced lower per pound, making them a cost-effective option for budget-conscious families.
Some meal ideas for ground meats are burgers, meatloaf, spaghetti Bolognese, tacos and casseroles.
Whole Grains and Bread Alternatives
While purchasing whole-grain bread and tortillas is convenient, making them at home can be more economical and rewarding. By buying ingredients like flour and yeast in bulk, you can bake batches of whole wheat bread, homemade bagels and other baked goods on weekends to last the entire week.
This not only saves money but also allows for customization to suit dietary preferences. Many find home baking to be a therapeutic and enjoyable hobby, turning a chore into a creative outlet.
Herbs, Spices and Condiments
Purchasing dried herbs and spices in bulk from ethnic markets or discount stores can lead to significant savings. Store-brand condiments like ketchup and mustard are often priced lower than name brands, with minimal difference in taste.
Proper storage of these items ensures a long shelf life, providing flavor enhancements to meals without frequent repurchasing.
Frozen Fish and Poultry
Frozen proteins such as tilapia, pollock and chicken thighs are generally more affordable than their fresh counterparts.
In particular, chicken legs and thighs tend to be less expensive than breasts or tenders, offering similar nutritional value and versatility in cooking. Buying these cuts in bulk and freezing portions can lead to substantial savings over time.
Nonperishable Breakfast Items
Items like instant oatmeal, cereals (especially when on sale) and pancake mixes are cost-effective breakfast options with long shelf lives.
Purchasing these in bulk and utilizing coupons can further reduce costs. Preparing breakfast in advance ensures quick, nutritious meals on busy mornings.
Store Brand and Generic Items
Opting for store-brand or generic versions of products like pasta, canned tomatoes and cooking oils can result in significant savings. These products often match the quality of name brands, offering similar taste and nutritional value at a lower price point.
Incorporating these budget-friendly options into your shopping routine not only stretches your dollar but also encourages healthier eating habits as well as creativity in the kitchen. Consider adding at least three of these items to your next grocery list and explore new recipes to make the most of your purchases.
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Source
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American Frozen Food Institute, “Foundation Study Highlights Nutrient Profile of Frozen Fruits and Vegetables.”
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 Underpriced Grocery Items Frugal People Should Start Buying in 2025
