Note: This is part of the “How To – On a Budget” series. Click here to read more ideas for doing life on a budget (building a wardrobe, having a baby, and giving gifts).
We’ve all heard it: “Get your 5-a-day!”
But let’s be honest. Sometimes it’s hard to invest in produce when it seems so expensive.
Today I’m going to share with you some of my tips and tricks for shopping for produce on a budget so you can have a happy and healthy life and diet.
1. Shop local.
I usually shop at a local produce stand as opposed to picking up my fruits and veggies at whatever store I’m already in. The prices are better, and there are usually options to buy from local farms, which is cheaper than importing from other countries.
2. Shop discount. 
I love the discount section! I have found some truly amazing things in this section. It’s usually on a shelf away from normal sight, so hunt for it or ask an employee. This is where the produce that is going bad gets put. Sometimes you find moldy and mushy things, but other times, you find things that still have a bit of time left in them.
This picture is an example of a really good day on the discount shelf. I got a bag of perfectly good tomatoes, delicious plums, just ripe mangoes, organic bananas, and local strawberries. Each item was $1.00 – total score!
If you do find some items that are only going to be good for a day or so, buy a bunch of veggies to make a stir-fry or make a batch of jam with ripe fruit.
3. Shop in bulk (for certain things). 
I buy certain things in bulk that I know I will use and that won’t go bad. Some good examples are apples, potatoes, carrots, and onions. These items last a long time, and I use them on a regular basis. Make sure to store them in a cool, dry place or in the fridge to make sure they keep.
Buying things in bulk will save money. Take potatoes for example. Instead of paying $1.40/pound, I buy a 10 lb. bag for $3.50-$5.00. This lasts me a long time, and I pay 1/3 of the price with the bulk option.
4. Shop smart (don’t overbuy).
Sometimes I get so excited about the discount section, or I want to try new things, and I buy too much. This wastes money if you let it sit in the fridge and it goes bad. I generally shop twice a month for produce, spending about $20-$25 each time. That means $40-$50 gets my family our 5-a-day for a month – what a deal!
Now it’s your turn! What tips and tricks do you have for shopping for fruits and veggies?
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