How to Save Money on Groceries: Tips from The Idaho Foodbank

A recent report reveals that a growing number of families in America are struggling to put food on the table for their families1. Saving money on groceries can feel challenging, especially with rising prices. We invited Kesha Barden, a Nutrition Education Specialist at The Idaho Foodbank, to join us on our Making Sense of Money podcast.

Kesha shared practical tips on how to shop smarter, avoid impulse purchases, and plan meals without breaking the bank. Her advice can make a big difference if you want to cut costs or simply get more organized!

how to save money on groceries with a woman and a shopping cart

Start with a Plan 

One great way to approach shopping healthy on a budget is to start with a plan. Kesha says, "Shopping really takes strategizing, especially if you want to get the most bang for your buck." So, the first step? Create a menu plan and a grocery list. 

  • Set a Budget: Know how much you can afford to spend. 
  • Check Your Pantry: Take inventory of what you already have. 
  • Stick to Your List: Avoid tossing extra items into your cart. 

Planning your shopping trip might take extra time, but it helps you stay on track and avoid overspending. 

Stock Up on Pantry Staples

A well-stocked pantry is a lifesaver when life gets busy. Kesha recommends having staples on hand so "you can quickly put a meal together without scrambling for ingredients." It's all about being prepared for those busy evenings when plans may change, and you must adjust your plans. 


Avoid Impulse Purchases

Let's face it—grocery stores are designed to tempt you with impulse buys. Those bright displays and cleverly placed snacks are hard to resist! 

Kesha offered some strategies to stay focused: 
  • Shop the perimeter of the store, where fresh produce, dairy, and proteins are located. These are the healthy staples. 
  • Be wary of flashy displays and colorful packaging in the middle aisles. 
  • If you see a great deal on something you need, grab it—but don't buy items just because they're on sale. 

Simplify Meal Planning 

Does meal planning feel overwhelming? Kesha admitted it takes some time upfront but assured us it's worth it in the long run. 

Here's her advice: 
  • Set aside an hour or two each week. 
  • Check your pantry and fridge. 
  • Write a simple menu with 4–5 meals for the week. 

"Once you have a plan, you'll save time during the week and avoid the stress of last-minute decisions," she said. 

Take Advantage of Community Resources 

If you need extra help with groceries, Kesha encouraged people to check out resources like the Idaho Foodbank. 

The food bank offers: 
  • Free pantry staples, fresh produce, proteins, and bread. 
  • Hygiene items, pet food, diapers, and more. 

If you're struggling to make ends meet, the food bank is a great way to supplement your grocery budget. 

Get Involved with the Idaho Foodbank

If you'd like to volunteer, donate, or attend a free class, the Idaho Foodbank has something for everyone. Also, if you want to support the Idaho Foodbank, every $5 donated helps purchase $15 worth of food! Visit their website at idahofoodbank.org or call 208.746.2288 for more information. 


Listen to the Full Episode

This excerpt is just a snapshot of Kesha's great tips from the podcast. To hear more, tune in to Making Sense of Money! 

Click Here to Listen 










































1Food Research & Action Center. (2024, September). USDA food security report: September 2024. Retrieved February 10, 2025, from https://frac.org/news/usdafoodsecurityreportsept2024#:~:text=The%20report%20reveals%20that%2047.4,13.5%20million%20compared%20to%202021.