Have you ever felt like every year, your dollars continue to buy less and less at the grocery store? You wouldn’t be alone in this feeling as many consumers across the country are burdened with the lingering effects of higher-than-normal inflation – the increase in overall prices. Even if you haven’t experienced a major increase in your food bill, you may still notice that the amount of goods you receive for the same price has decreased: this is a process dubbed “shrinkflation.” 

As college students faced with already heightened costs of education, it is important to take every step we can to save money while living on campus. One of the best ways to do this is to take control of one of the main expenses incurred throughout our college experience: groceries and food. 

While it may not seem like it, small changes in the way we shop can lead to exponential savings in the long run. If you find yourself feeling the pressure of increasing prices at your local supermarket, here are some ways to potentially trim your grocery bill and save some cash. 

The first thing I will say is to stay basic. Grocery stores are carefully crafted to lead you through high-margin items into essentials like milk and eggs. So, while the 6 pack of chocolate chip cookies sitting in the bakery section may look tempting, it helps to establish a list of things you need before visiting (if you are craving them, baking them from scratch is way cheaper). 

Another thing to do is to think cost-per-unit. This is something I noticed not too long ago and has changed my shopping process entirely. Instead of comparing prices, look at the cost-per-unit of the product and decide whether you are willing to pay a premium for one product over the other. Moreover, buying in bulk will often yield savings. Pantry staples like rice and spices can often be bought in seemingly absurd proportions, but making the upfront investment can be way cheaper than buying a bag that will last you two weeks. 

And finally, never discount private label brands. For those unaware, private labels are products that are manufactured and branded by the retailer you choose to shop at – think Great Value (Walmart), Kirkland Signature (Costco), and everything in Trader Joes. Being made by the retailer means that the company experiences cost savings which they then pass onto you, the end customer, to stay competitive. In my experience, most private labels of essential goods rarely differ in quality from name brands.

In conclusion, while inflation and shrinkflation are challenging realities, there are practical strategies to manage your grocery expenses. By planning ahead, comparing cost-per-unit, buying in bulk, and swapping to private-label brands, you can stretch your dollars further. As college students, adopting these habits not only eases financial pressure but also instills smart shopping practices that will benefit you long after graduation. Embrace these tips, and you'll find that a little effort can lead to significant savings, making your college experience more affordable and enjoyable.

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