Myth seven of my coupon myths and misconceptions series goes like this:
"Well I only eat organic, healthy food. All the coupons are for processed food. Plus, I like to cook from scratch."
My response? If you like to eat like that, you could more readily afford to if you used coupons and knew a thing or two about the way store sales work! If you think I'm off my rocker, read on.
The thing is, whether you shop with coupons or without coupons, it all boils down to the choices you make. There are thousands of items in the store to choose from, and thousands of coupons and offers as well. Just because you use coupons and want to save a buck does not resign you to a diet of Hamburger Helper and Top Ramen for the rest of your days.
Here is what I've observed about eating well using coupons and sales:
- Manufacturers are increasingly offering organic, healthy food coupons and offers. Pay attention a little bit and you'll find lots of offers for good, healthy food. Just a couple weeks ago, I posted about how Eat Better America is giving away coupon books. In the health section of my Fred Meyer I found a basket full of free samples and coupons. How about that free Kashi entree? And these are just the tip of iceburg lettuce folks.
- Money saved on household items = more money for what matters to you. If you are ultra-picky on your meat cuts or only buy organic produce, consider saving money in other areas. By shopping at drugstores such as Walgreens, Rite Aid, and CVS, you can drastically save on items like toothpaste, toilet paper, and household cleaners. With the new-found money in your wallet, you can now more readily buy the meat, produce, and dairy that you love.
- Couponers do less impulse shopping and eating out. Guess what? Because you are learning to build a stockpile, chances are you're naturally going to be cooking more. Your grocery trips will be carefully planned, so there will be reduced temptation to "browse." You'll also learn to get creative in the kitchen with your pantry items, which means more homecooked meals, not less.
- Buy according to store trends. If you really dig organic veggies, why not take the time to learn when each one comes into season? By purchasing produce when it's at its peak, you'll save money while getting the best flavor at the same time. The same goes for meat. Learn to plan your lists and meals around store and seasonal trends.
- Consider starting your own garden. Many couponers are avid gardeners. Is it any wonder? Paying pennies for vegetable seeds is certainly cheaper than paying full price at the grocery store. And what could be more healthful than fruits and veggies grown from your own garden?
In my travels around the blogosphere, I have come across some great resources on how to buy organic and/or eat healthful on a budget. Check them out for some great additional reading on this subject:
Get Rich Slowly (is documenting his gardening adventure and tracking the expenses involved)
The Prudent Homemaker(blogger who lives off her garden, cooks from scratch, and lives off her stockpile)
Hot Coupon World – Forum on Gardening
Grocery Game – forum on organics and whole foods
If you personally run a money-saving blog that focuses on healthy eating or living, you are welcome to leave a comment and let us know!
Photo credit Christine Landis
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This is SO true! I used to think that we wouldn’t benefit from couponing, because we don’t buy things like Hamburger Helper or Pillsbury rolls. But I’ve found more manufacturers offering healthier coupons now. I also use coupons for things like shampoo, paper products, and dairy. So, that leave more money to buy the food items that we prefer.