High-fat staples under $5*
-
1 jar of peanut butter
(16 ounces) -
1 gallon of whole milk
-
1 pound of butter
(about 4 sticks) -
1 block of cheese (1 pound)
-
1 large tub of whole-milk yogurt
(32 ounces) -
1 dozen eggs
-
2 pounds of chicken legs
-
1 pound of ground beef
Nutritious veggies under $5*
-
2-3 avocados
-
1 pound of sweet potatoes
-
1 pound of carrots
-
1 pound of tomatoes
-
1 pound of broccoli
-
1 bag of baby spinach
(10 ounces) -
1 bag of mixed salad greens
(1 pound) -
3 cans of beans
(15-16 ounces each)
*Prices are based on reports by the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics and may have changed since publication.
It’s not just what you buy, but how you buy
Consider some of these tips the next time you're filling your cart:
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Try not to shop hungry: An empty stomach can quickly lead to an empty wallet
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Take advantage of coupons and loyalty programs: The savings can add up quicker than you think
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Buy in bulk when you can: Buying larger amounts of food can help you stretch each dollar even further
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Shop around: Your neighborhood grocery store may not always have the best deals. Consider dollar stores, warehouse stores, or even the farmers market
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Don't rely on the name: Many stores sell their own products that can be cheaper than the name-brand version
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Go for quality over quantity: Foods that are higher in fiber and protein can help you feel full during your meal and for some time after
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Know your store: Fresh foods like fruits and vegetables, meats, and dairy are usually found along the outside edges of the store, not in the middle. But shelf-stable foods like rice, pasta, and canned fruits and vegetables have a place in your cart too!
Amber Dawkins, a parent and athlete with CF, preparing a smoothie.
Switch it up with recipe swaps
Feeling like you're in a rut? Try something new with these tasty swaps:
Try turkey bacon instead of traditional (pork) bacon.
Use black beans instead of refried beans.
Swap in tofu for meat in your favorite recipe.
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Add some crunch with nuts or seeds instead of croutons
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Grab dark leafy greens instead of iceberg lettuce
