Is there a proper way to shop at the grocery store?

Think back to the first time that you went to the grocery store to pick up ingredients for multiple meals. You might not recall that very first time but may be familiar with some common advice about the right way to shop: make a list and stick to it; eat before you shop so you don’t buy impulsively, look for the sale items and stock up, go early, go late, etc, etc. There may be some truth to these, but more importantly, I’d like to add my #1 advice: go ahead and shop the whole darn store and not just the perimeter!

Beyond produce, dairy, and animal proteins, the center of the store has plenty of affordable and convenient options, including shelf-stable options. Whether you consider your budget high, low, or middle, a grocery store with enough options allows you to make choices based on your budget, likes, dislikes, and current health needs. The choice to buy shelf-stable and frozen options is yours with no guilt and shame, particularly when the fresh alternatives are out of season or simply not affordable. Versatility and balance are here to stay! Don’t forget to check out the spice section! I consider the spice section the fun box of the grocery store. For a relatively low price, I can transport myself globally to the Middle East, West Africa, or the Caribbean with some sprinkling of the right spice. So go ahead and experiment with varied spices to add flavor to all of your meals-snacks included. I also love the fresh herb section that doubles both as spice and aroma. Think about it– as soon as you walk into a space, you know that cilantro, rosemary, or basil have found their way into the meal.

Do you tend to stop and browse each sale label that hangs off the shelf? That’s great! It’s a wonderful way to experiment with a new item or to buy a favorite item in bulk at a more favorable price. When it comes to produce and fresh items, look for the foods you love so that you actually eat them! We want to be mindful of buying large quantities of perishable food products on sale only to watch them expire or rot.

So is there a proper way to shop at the grocery store? The proper way is your way, at the time that works for you, and by making the choices you love while centering your health needs.

Follow along as I shop and share meal ideas at Whole Food Market! Are you Team Snack, Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner? Let us know in the comments below!

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