Grab your reusable grocery bags; we're going shopping!
Shopping for groceries may seem daunting for those of us transitioning to a vegan diet. With these surefire tips, you'll be walking down the aisles with confidence in no time.
1. Shop at the ends of the store
Usually, grocery shops stock fresh produce on one end and frozen food on another; stick to these two sections. Some of the cheapest foods are vegan, such as bananas, rice, potatoes, beans, and tofu. Of course, it's also okay to buy vegan dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, or snacks. Vegan alternatives are delicious but they tend to be expensive. For budget-friendly alternatives, check out our guide substitute vegan alternatives with everyday ingredients.
Shop along the aisles only if you need to restock non-perishable staples like beans or pasta sauce. This is where you find all the tempting chips, cereal, snacks, and other processed foods. While these items are definitely delicious, they tend to add up. Avoid the temptation to overspend by avoiding these aisles.
2. Check allergen information
If you're not sure if a specific item is vegan or not, check the allergen information at the bottom of the ingredient list. This way, you don't have to read through all ingredients. When a product contains common allergens like milk or eggs, they are mentioned in a "warning" text at the bottom of the ingredient list. If, instead, you find dairy, eggs, or other non-vegan items listed under "may contain traces of", it means that while the product can be vegan, it has been made in a place that makes non-vegan items as well.
3. Shop seasonally
Most fruits and vegetables are seasonal and will cost more when purchased off-season. For instance, berries are five times more expensive in the winter, and tomatoes get pricier as the temperatures drop. Additionally, the fruits and vegetables may be imported from overseas or other states, traveling further to get to the store as compared to locally grown produce. These imported goods may arrive later than the optimal time for consumption and hence lose nutritional value. Moreover, eating seasonally ensures you eat fresh and introduce variety to your meals.
4. Buy in bulk
Items purchased in larger quantities are usually sold at a reduced price. Non-perishable items such as rice and beans are perfect to bulk-buy as they are staples in a vegan diet, and have a long shelf life.
Photo source: minimalistbaker.com