New financial year, new financial you! We share our top 5 steps to reduce your grocery bill

There are plenty of ways to save with ALDI and start the new financial year the right way. We have listed some easy ways to help save you time and money (you can thank us later!):

1. Meal Prepping: Love it or loathe it meal prepping is unquestionably one way you can save time and money. While Sunday you might feel less than enthusiastic about getting in the kitchen, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday you will appreciate your hard work!

• Freeze single-sized portions for on the go breakfasts and quick lunches to avoid buying a meal on the run
• Go big and go home! A whole chicken is usually around $5.99, and when you compare that to the price of pre-cut chicken you are looking at a substantial saving. Not to mention a whole chicken can be used to make multiple recipes, from roasts, to soups and pies, you will definitely get more bang for your buck!
• Stick to tried and true favourites! Don’t get intimidated by fancy meals and intricate recipes. When meal prepping think soups, slow cooker stews, breakfast muffins and pasta sauces.

2. Shop seasonal fruits and veggies: When items are in season, they are not only more affordable, but also more delicious.

• Shopping by the seasons not only trims some of your fruit and veg spend but adds variety to your meals. Each month there will be new fruits and vegetables in season so your tastebuds will never get bored!
• Look out for ALDI super savers. Super savers are often eclipsed by the exciting new Special Buys that are released each week but the savings are definitely not to be overlooked! Each week meat, fruit and vegetables at ALDI have their moment in the spotlight and become just a little more affordable! Buy up and get chopping, baking, and freezing to make the most of these price reductions.

3. Meatless Monday: Plan at least one meatless meal a week

• There are many ways to get an affordable protein kick without the big spend that might come along with a meat purchase. Beans, lentils and eggs should be top of the list for your affordable start to the week.
• No matter your moral or sustainable views cutting meat once a week will mean you are trimming your grocery bill, improving your health and reducing your environmental impact.

4. Create a monthly budget: Track your spending and make sure you’re consistent

• Always know what the price of your food shop will be, as well as other outgoing expenses. Don’t forget a “fun fund” for Special Buys and other exciting non-ALDI experiences (not that we can think of anything more exciting than a trip to ALDI!)
• Go against the grain and resist the temptation of price drops on grocery items. You are more likely to throw that shopping list out the window and bump up your spend if you get tempted by a sale here and a discount there. At ALDI, products remain consistently low so I always know how much my grocery shop will be each week!
• Hold your bank account to account; if you see what is coming in and out each month you’re more aware of where your money pits are and when you can spoil yourself! Schedule time to review and check in on your finances throughout the year.

5. Store and Save: When you can see food you’re less likely to double up on purchases and waste!

• Waste not, want not: there are many ways to extend the life of your fresh fruits and vegetables. If bananas are going slightly brown, or you are not getting through your celery and carrots quick enough, get chopping, pop them in a container and throw in the freezer as smoothie starters and a pre-chopped soup base.
• Invest in glass containers: Rather than falling victim to the old out of sight out of mind principle, glass containers will remind you what you have in the fridge and pantry so you know when produce is reaching the end of its life! This way you can prioritise that produce for your next cook or pop them in the freezer before they reach the point of no return. Secondly, if you are reminded of what you have in your home, it will prevent you from repurchasing those items next time you shop!