Eating well for less

Trying to eat well and make healthy choices when shopping on a budget can seem very daunting. However, healthy choices don’t need to be expensive choices and following these top tips will help you keep to a budget and help the whole family eat more healthily. 

Top tips for eating well for less

• Plan meals for the week ahead, starting with what’s in the cupboard

• Write a shopping list for your weekly meal plan

• Replace meat a couple of times a week with lower cost and healthier options like beans and pulses, which also keep for longer

• Involve the family in planning and choosing healthy meals

• Stick to the shopping list – remove any items from your basket that are not on the list before paying

• Choose loose, rather than pre-packed, fruit and vegetables, and check for those that are in season as they may be cheaper

• Buy store brands as they often cost less than branded items

• Buy frozen and tinned vegetables and fruit – these are a healthy alternative (if in own juice and low salt) and can be cheaper than buying fresh

• Buy in bulk and make your own portions at home

• Shop during ‘happy hour’ when food is reduced