How do I save money on fruits and veggies?

2. Meal plan to help you save money

Taking the time to meal plan can help you save money. By having an idea of what meals you’ll eat for the week, you’ll be less likely to depend on take-out meals, which can be expensive. If you’re new to meal planning, here’s a few tips to get you started:

• Write down a few meals you’d like to prepare for the week. For recipe inspiration, see our recipes.
• Incorporate foods you already have in your fridge and pantry into your meal plan. Plan to use fresh produce that may go bad over the next few days.
• Look for specials on produce in store flyers and plan your meals around those items.
• Make a grocery list and stick to that list when shopping.

3. Look for fresh fruits and veggies that are a good buy all year round

Apples, bananas, carrots, cabbage, onions, and potatoes are usually well-priced throughout the year. Unfamiliar with cabbage? Cabbage can be sautéed into a stir fry, chopped into a salad, or rolled into cabbage rolls. Check out this video from our Half Your Plate dietitian for 7 tips to save money on produce.

4. Choose bags of fruits and veggies over single pieces

Bags of potatoes, onions, carrots, and apples are usually more affordable than single pieces. When stored correctly, most of them can stay fresh for up to one month. If you’re worried that the produce may spoil before you get through the bag, single pieces may be a better option for you, or freeze for future use.

5. Shop for in-season produce

When produce is in season, it’s not only fresher but also less expensive. Here are some examples of what’s in season and when in Canada:

• Spring: Asparagus, fiddleheads, and rhubarb
• Summer: Blueberries, beans, beets, cucumbers, cabbage, corn, kale, lettuce, mushrooms, peaches, nectarines, spinach, strawberries, and watermelon
• Fall: Apples, Brussels Sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cranberries, onions, pears, potatoes, and squash
• Winter: Apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, garlic, mushrooms, onions, potatoes, and squash

Check out our Seasonal produce guide for more information.

6. Look for less than “perfect” produce

Some grocery stores now offer “less-than-perfect” produce, which may have minor imperfections. Less-than-perfect produce is both safe and nutritious to eat, and costs less money.

7. Prepare your own fruits and veggies

Pre-washed and pre-cut fruits and veggies are great to have on hand if you want to save time, but typically cost more. You can save money by cutting and washing your own fruits and veggies. Try food prepping on less busy nights or immediately after unpacking your groceries. Cut your own celery and carrots and store them in the fridge for a quick snack idea.

8. Store your produce properly

Whether it’s on the counter, in the fridge, or in the pantry, fruits and veggies stay fresh longer when stored in the correct place. Preventing your fruits and veggies from going bad too quickly will save you money. Check our our How do I store my fruits and veggies so they last as long as possible? for essential produce storage tips.

9. Grow your own fruits and veggies

In the summer, try growing your own fruits and veggies. It can be a cost-effective way to save money on fruits and veggies during the summer. Check out these easy gardening ideas to get started.

10. Download our money saving guide for more ideas

Understanding how to save money on fresh fruits and vegetables can help you maximize your food budget. In this guide, find out how to save money on produce at the grocery store and discover easy affordable recipes. You’ll also learn practical tips to help you waste less produce at home, and in turn, waste less money!