13 Dietitian-Approved Swaps to Help You Save over $30 on Groceries This Week

1. Citrus fruits

2. Bacon and sausage

Meat products are likely one of the items you’ve noticed impacting your wallet the most. Bacon, sausage and other processed pork products have been the hardest-hit of the meat category, with prices 16.5% higher than last year, on average. Bacon, in particular, has seen an 18% increase.

3. Crackers and bread

Usually one of the most cost-effective products in the store, bread and crackers have seen a rise due to inflation, seeing a 16.3% increase in the category. CNN reports that this is due in part toUkraine exporting less wheat and grain products due to the war with Russia, which has an impact on global availability. (Russia is currently not able to export its wheat and grain products either.) These countries are responsible for approximately 30% of global wheat and grain exports, so this is a tough blow for countries across the world.

Unfortunately, this means we will not likely see a reprieve in this category anytime soon. Storing your bread in the freezer is a great way to extend its shelf life, and utilizing stale bread for recipes likeFennel Panzanellacan help make the most of your loaf and prevent food waste. You may also have slightly better luck shopping from local bakeries, though flour is currently very expensive as well.

4. Beef and veal

Beef is another product in the meat category that’s taking a lot of heat from inflation, with prices up 16% for the overall category. Uncooked beef steaks have seen a 16.4% year-over-year increase, while veal has seen a hefty 18.8% increase.

Opting for ground beef will save you a few bucks over other beef products, but you’ll do even better if you can stretch it as smartly as possible. TryGrilled Beef-Mushroom Burgers with Quick Pickles, or toss in an extra can of beans intoCowboy Beef & Bean Chili. Better yet, pick up some dried beans to save even more at the register.

5. Some fats and oils

Additionally, it may actually be worth cooking with olive oil over sunflower, vegetable or soy options, as theWorld Economic Forumreports that these oils have seen one of the largest price increases worldwide. Especially if you have multiple mouths to feed at home, it could be worth shopping for your favorite olive oil and nut butters in bulk online or at stores likeCostcoand Sam’s Club. You can also make your own nut butter at home.

Finally, some good news! While all food categories have seen price increases in the last year, there are still plenty of favorites that have experienced significantly smaller bumps than those listed above. It’s still worth seeking out local or regional purveyors, when possible, as well as shopping the canned aisles and freezer sections for several of these options to further stretch your dollar.

1. Tomatoes

Interestingly, tomatoes have seen the lowest increase in price over the last year, at just 1.7%. This is great news as you’re preparing for summer’s bounty. Some states may already be seeing beautiful heirloom varieties arrive at their local farmers' markets and grocers.

Tomatoesare an excellent source of the antioxidants lycopene, beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote heart health, help lower blood pressure and stave off chronic disease. Plus, there are plenty of ways toturn overripe tomatoes into delicious dishesif you stock up on too many.

2. Cheese

Plus, you can alsofreeze some cheeses, which will allow you to take advantage of any BOGO deals or shop in bulk while prices are relatively low. Also try incorporating various cheeses to get kids to eat more veggies, like inMac & Cheese with Cauliflower & Brussels Sprouts.

3. Ice Cream

Your inner kid will be pleased to learn that ice cream has seen a relatively low increase in prices during the last year, at 3.1%. While budgets feel tighter than ever right now, you can feel good about picking up your family’s favorite carton as the temperature heats up. Ice cream will also make for a more cost-effective celebratory treat than other desserts (like baked goods) right now, due to inflation.

4. Potatoes

Potatoes have long been a staple food for many Americans, as they offer a host ofhealth benefits. Thankfully, potatoes have only seen a 3.4% increase in price over the last year. Besides being incredibly delicious, potatoes offer fiber, are an excellent source of B vitamins and potassium and are great for your gut, thanks to being a source of resistant starch. Plus, they are incredibly versatile.

Whether you’re picking up a package of frozen hash browns or a bag of fresh russets, potatoes are a favorite ingredient for stretching meals. Buying them in bulk versus one or two at a time is much more economical, so make sure tostore potatoes properly.

Here’s Why You May See Rising Egg Prices Right Now

5. Canned fish and seafood

Consider making salmon burgers with canned salmon, instead of your go-to beef burgers. Don’t be afraid of usinganchoviesto make just about any savory dish even more flavorful and delicious, whether it’s a simple bowl of pasta or a hearty chicken dish.

Bottom Line

While the prices of some foods, such as citrus, bread and beef, have greatly increased due to inflation, the costs of other foods, such as tomatoes, potatoes and cheese, have remained more stable. Incorporating some clever swaps or uses for both expensive and more budget-friendly foods can help control your spending at the supermarket.

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