"Grocery Store Myths That Waste Your Money!"

Grocery store tricks that you should know.

Let’s talk about something that’s quietly draining your wallet every single week — grocery store myths.

Most people walk into the store thinking they’re shopping smart, but the truth is, there are a lot of common beliefs that do more harm than good. I’ve spent a lifetime feeding people — at home, in restaurants, and now helping others cook real food on a realistic budget. So let me clear up a few things I see people falling for all the time.

Myth #1: Buying in Bulk Always Saves Money

Not always. Sure, bulk can save you cash — if you're actually going to use it. But if you end up tossing half a box of stale crackers or freezer-burned chicken thighs, what did you really save?

Buy bulk only on items you know you’ll use and that have a long shelf life (think rice, beans, pasta). And make sure your storage space can actually keep them fresh.

Myth #2: Name Brands Are Always Better

This one’s a classic marketing trick. In blind taste tests, most people can’t tell the difference between brand name and store brand — and the savings can be 20–50%.

Here’s a trick I use: try swapping out one name brand item for the store version each week. If no one notices, you’ve got yourself a new go-to. Do that over time, and your grocery bill starts shrinking fast.

Myth #3: Fresh Produce Is Always Healthier Than Frozen

I love fresh veggies as much as anyone, but let’s be honest — they don’t always last. Frozen vegetables are picked at peak ripeness and flash frozen to lock in nutrients. Plus, they cost less, last longer, and there’s no waste.

Pro tip: keep a few bags of frozen vegetables on hand. They’re lifesavers on busy nights and way better than letting that bag of spinach liquify in the fridge.

Myth #4: Coupons and BOGOs Are Always Worth It

Don’t get me wrong — I like saving money. But don’t let flashy deals trick you into buying stuff you don’t need.

BOGO candy, oversized snacks, and processed freezer meals might feel like a good deal, but if they weren’t part of your original plan, you just got hustled. Stick to your list. Shop with purpose.

Myth #5: Shopping Sales Means You’re Saving

Sales can be great, but only if you're strategic. Don’t fall into the trap of buying something just because it’s “on sale.” If it wasn’t something you needed, it’s not a savings — it’s an expense you didn’t plan for.

Instead, build your meals around the right sales — like discounted meat, seasonal produce, or pantry staples you use all the time. That’s how you win the grocery game.

Bottom Line:

Grocery stores are designed to get you to spend more — not less. But when you learn how the system works, you can outsmart it. That’s what Eat Well. Spend Less. is all about: cutting through the noise, busting the myths, and giving you practical tools to feed yourself and your family well — without going broke.

Let’s keep exposing the nonsense and saving some serious money together.