There’s never been a better time to buy products close to home. Here are some tips to help you save money on groceries and support local Canadian growers and producers!
How to shop Canadian and buy products from BC
- Look for “Product of Canada”. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) considers âProduct of Canadaâ to be the same as âCanadian.â If youâre committed to filling your shopping cart with more Canadian food, look for it on labels.
- Check for BC products using the Buy BC website where you can also find out what’s in season.
- Explore farmers markets or farm stands (depending on where you live).
- Do your research and ask for recommendations. Lots of folks are sharing their favourite Canadian brands and products on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Reddit, etc.). Explore social media, news articles, buy-Canadian websites, and solicit input from the people you trust!
How to save money on groceries
- Make a meal plan before you go! Decide what you want to eat each each day and only buy the items you need. Check out your fridge and freezer and make a list before you go.
- Use coupons and try out price-comparison apps on your phone to find out if there are better deals close-by. Consider planning meals around what is on sale.
- Try not to grocery shop when you’re hungry (as we all know how that goes!) and avoid aisles to resist buying expensive snacks you don’t need.
- Donât buy on auto-pilot. Take a few minutes to check product origins and consider branching out from your old go-to products to try new local brands that may be more affordable!
- Compare unit prices. The food and other products you buy at the grocery are typically measured in standard units like grams. A unit price is simply the itemâs price converted to cost per unit. Seek out the best deal based on the unit price.
- Some grocery stores have a discounted produce section. Check it out and buy some ripe fruits and veggies to eat that night or freeze for later.
- Buy bulk when you can and don’t be afraid of leftovers! Consider making meals where the leftovers can be made into something slightly different (burrito bowl one night and lettuce wraps the next!).
- Avoid the items placed at the end of the aisles. Instead, check their regular location to find better prices and sales.
- Get creative with what is in your fridge! Some apps and websites will help you come up with recipes with your odds and ends.
- Learn more tips and tricks for saving money at the grocery store. Check out some of our other blogs on this topic to help you seek out additional savings:
Did we miss anything? What are some ways you save money and navigate rising prices at the grocery store? Share your ideas in the comments.
Did you like this? You might like these posts too!
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The savvy shopperâs guide to groceries â Part 1
The savvy shopperâs guide to groceries â Part 2
About Consumer Protection BC
We are not-for-profit regulator responsible for overseeing certain industries and specific consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we canât help you directly, we will try to offer a referral to a relevant organization, if one exists. Other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca
Why do Sobeys not indicate on Compliments label where the product is made. Many of the labels state âprepared forâ but not where
Hi Linda, I’m not sure. You might want to ask the customer service folks at the grocery store or by contacting Sobey’s customer service directly.