Eating well on a low budget
It’s not always easy to eat well on a low income, but there are ways you can get the most out of your food spend.
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When you are planning your weekly meals, writing a shopping list and keeping to it can help you avoid going over your budget. It is useful to use a self-scanner to keep track of the costs when you are shopping.
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Go to supermarkets known for value-for-money, and look for specials. While the local dairy or service station can be easier to get to, be aware that you may be paying more than you would at a supermarket.
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Reduce the amount of convenience, processed and snack foods you buy as these cost more than fresh foods.
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Local weekend fruit and vegetable markets usually have cheaper produce.
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Supermarkets own brands are often cheaper than branded products.
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Compare prices by looking at the price per 100grams or litre.
Make your food go further
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Make more at dinner to have for lunch the next day.
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Add cooked dried peas and beans (chickpeas, kidney beans, lentils, split peas) to a dish to make them go further, especially curries, casseroles and stews, along with more vegetables.
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Slow cookers are a great time and money saver, as you can use them to slow cook cheaper cuts of meat.
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Freeze leftovers and any surplus produce from your garden.
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Adapted from ‘Affordable eats’ (2019) www.heartfoundation.org.nz
More information
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No Money – No Time – This is a great Australian, interactive website that has healthy eating advice and budget-friendly recipes