Shopping Smart
By | May 9, 2025
Make a Plan
- Write a shopping list before you go to the store
- Check your kitchen to see what you already have
- Plan your meals for the week
- Stick to your list when shopping
Save Money
- Look for sales and use coupons
- Join store loyalty programs for discounts
- Compare prices between stores
- Buy store brands instead of name brands
Shop Wisely
- Don’t shop when you’re hungry
- Buy only what you can use before it spoils and be sure to check expiration dates
- Compare unit prices to get the best deal
- Buy in bulk only if you can use it all
Shop Nutritious
- Choose produce that is in-season
- Shop the frozen aisle for fruits and vegetables, look for varieties with no sauces or added salt/sugar. Frozen fruits and vegetables are picked at peaked ripeness and are just as nutritious as fresh.
- For canned items, choose fruits canned in water or 100% fruit juice and vegetables with “low-sodium” or “no salt added” on the label.
- Don’t forget your protein! Beans, peas, lentils, and eggs are a great source of protein and budget friendly.
Black Bean Salad
This simple corn and bean salad can be made in minutes. Enjoy it on top of eggs, on whole grain tortilla, or on pita chips.
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, low-sodium (15.5 ounces)
- 1 1/2 10-ounce packages frozen corn
- 1/2 cup salsa
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Leave frozen corn in the fridge overnight to defrost. If you forget to do this ahead of time, defrost it in the microwave.
- Drain and rinse the black beans.
- Combine all ingredients together and serve as a side dish.
Alexandria is the Senior Product Manager at GA Foods. She is a Registered Dietitian and has worked in clinical rehabilitation facilities and the post-discharge food industry. Her experience gives Alexandria unique insights into social disparities and how health is affected. She and her growing family live in Tennessee, enjoying the mountain air, gardening, and tending their chickens.
