Grocery shopping seems to be getting more expensive with each trip, and it’s not just specialty items that are affected—basic, everyday necessities are also seeing significant price hikes. Many of these items are essentials that most households can’t avoid buying, making the rising costs even more noticeable. This article highlights a list of common grocery items that have become pricier than expected, making them feel like a waste of money.
Baked Goods
The Street writes, “Cereals and other bakery products had a (price increase) of 13% (between 2021 and 2022), and this is due to the rising costs of ingredients required to make them, as well as other production costs such as labor.” If you love your baked goods, then try making your own at home; it’s cheaper and much more fun.
Cereal
Cereal can work out to be surprisingly expensive per pound. It may be worthwhile to look at other breakfast options, such as toast or yogurt. Making breakfast from scratch can also be a much healthier option because you know exactly what’s going into your meal.
Juice
Purchasing juice is far more expensive than making your own. The DIY option means you have more control over what ingredients you use. Even if you purchase a juicer, the savings you’ll receive from making your own will soon outweigh the initial cost.
Smoothies
Store-bought smoothies are significantly overpriced. If you’re a regular smoothie drinker, then you may want to think about investing in a blender. You’ll be able to customize your smoothie ingredients to get the perfect taste, and your homemade version is likely to have far less sugar.
“Fresh” Seafood
A cheaper alternative is to purchase frozen seafood at the grocery store. This is supported by Eat This, Not That!, which writes, “Any seafood that is brought into a grocery store will need to be frozen on its way in, and then thawed in store. Because of this, the premium that you pay for ‘fresh’ seafood isn’t really worth it.”
Name-Brand Spices
Branded spices will have a markup on their prices compared to grocery store brands. You may want to consider purchasing your spices in bulk so that you can save some money. There’s often no difference in quality between branded spices and those you purchase in bulk.
Milk
This everyday essential has gone up considerably in price. It may be worth comparing different stores to see who stocks the cheapest milk. Otherwise, you could consider plant-based alternatives, which are usually cheaper and have a longer shelf life. You can also buy these in bulk, so you’re fully stocked up.
Canned Soup
There’s been a notable price increase when it comes to canned soup. You may find that it’s more cost-effective to buy in bulk or purchase store brands. Another alternative is homemade soup, which can be much more economical and healthier. They’re easy to make, and you can choose which ingredients to add.
Chicken
The avian flu has impacted the price of chicken. You may want to consider alternative sources for your protein, and this doesn’t just have to mean different meats. You could look into options such as tofu or lentils, both of which can create delicious meals. If you can’t say goodbye to chicken, then consider bulk buying and freezing.
Pet Food
A limited choice of pet food at the grocery store can mean that it costs more. For example, Taste of Home writes, “You’ll likely only find a half-aisle at most dedicated to pet food at your local grocery store, making the selection more expensive.” You may want to consider buying in bulk online or at warehouses.
Laundry Detergent
It’s far more economical to purchase your laundry detergent in bulk. You should also keep an eye out for sales or coupon offers. Another way to save on your laundry detergent is to purchase store brands. It all does the same thing, which means you aren’t spending more on a brand name.
Bacon
The cost of bacon has significantly increased. For savings, you may want to consider keeping an eye out for sales or purchasing in bulk. Another thing you can do is look at alternative breakfast options, especially as bacon can be unhealthy for you if it’s regularly eaten.
Oranges
The price of oranges has been affected by disease and seasonal changes. You’re best off purchasing oranges while they’re in season for the best price. You could also look into exploring local markets to try and uncover some deals. The oranges there should also be of much better quality.
Guacamole
Premade avocados can be significantly expensive. For example, Yahoo! Life writes, “Part of the added cost comes from the packaging, the effort it takes to make it, and the ingredients needed to transform a simple avocado into a zesty dip.” It’s simple to create your own guacamole at home, and it’ll often be much fresher.
Deli Meat
You’re usually paying for convenience when it comes to deli meats. For example, Spatula Desserts writes, “Sliced deli meats are extremely pricey. Sure, it is convenient and tasty, but you are often paying for a bunch of salt and preservatives.” You may want to think about purchasing your own meat and slicing it at home.
Pre-Prepared Salads
Pre-Prepared salads are often overpriced and not fresh. You’re paying for convenience over anything else. If you love salads, then think about preparing your own; they’ll be cheaper and much fresher. You can also pick and choose exactly what goes into your salad this way.
Individual Potatoes
Buying your potatoes in bulk is a great way to save money, as bagged potatoes are often much cheaper than individual ones. There’s also no difference in the quality, so it makes sense to purchase more. It stops any unnecessary spending and keeps you stocked up for longer.
Individual Yogurts
Bulk packs of yogurt are significantly cheaper than individual ones. If you want to save money, then you should consider buying your yogurt in bulk. Not only will it save you money but it’ll also create less waste, making it a much more eco-friendly option.
Pre-Cut Fruit
As with salads, pre-cut fruit may be convenient, especially when you’re on the go, but it comes at a high price. To save money, you should buy your fruits whole and then cut them up at home. Not only will you notice savings, but your fruit should be fresher.