• Plan ahead. Preparation is your best tool to trim the bill. Plan meals, check your pantry, and shop using a list to prevent overbuying. You’ll also avoid having to dash out mid-week for one or two things—and impulse-buying more.
• Coupons. You can find coupons in flyers and online (save.ca or coupons.smartsource.com). Use them to save on food basics you normally would buy. But be aware: Coupons are often used to encourage shoppers to try new items—which, in the end, won’t save you a dime.
• Eat seasonally. Take advantage of the savings you can enjoy when you buy foods that are plentiful.
• Compare unit prices. And be open to trying store brands.
• Watch the bill. Spot an error at the till and get the product free, up to $10—it’s in the Scanning Code of Practice, adhered to by major grocery chains. You can also check the bill before leaving the store, and report any errors at the service desk.

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