There are several ways to cut grocery store costs depending on how frugally you are intending to live. Some of these suggestions require a serious lifestyle change while others might just take a few extra seconds out of your day. So go ahead, take what works and reject what doesn't. Even by just incorporating one of these into your life you will save some money at the till.

1)Plan your meals. Make a 7 day list (or less if you eat out occasionally) of the recipes you intend to make for each meal. The least expensive way to go is to make extra for the evening and then use the leftovers the next day for lunch. Don't forget breakfast, beverages, and snacks!

2)Eat vegetarian for all or several of these meals. Try exchanging meat with beans. Or just use a “condiment” amount of meat in your dishes. Meat is expensive and earth intensive.

3)Use your grocery store fliers and note specials. Take these into account with your meal plans.

4)Compare the cost, quality, and location of your nearby stores. Check prices on items you buy often. It might be less expensive to walk to your nearby grocery and pick up a few items every second day than driving for miles to the big box discount store (and much less tempting to buy off-list items).

Evaluate regularly as stores cycle through price points: they bring in new customers with low prices and then slowly raise them. As the customer base dwindles, the prices are lowered again. There is a certain well-known big box retailer that is famous for this.

5)Take your list to the store with you. Be disciplined and ONLY buy those items on your list.

6)Buy generic food, or that which is high on the shelf or low on the shelf. The most expensive brands are located at eye level. Better yet, head to the bulk section and save even more. All that pretty packaging adds up.

7)Buy unprocessed raw ingredients when possible. Processed foods such as cookies cost a lot. Make your food from scratch instead. You will be eliminating harmful additives and preservatives and saving money. Not to mention trimming your waistline: a craving for chocolate chip cookies might pass when you know you have to bake a batch first.

8)Check the prices on the scanner versus the price on the shelf (or compare on your receipt after). Was the shelf price less? If so, speak up. In Canada, the store is required to give you the item for free if it is under $10.

9)Bring your own re-usable bags. Some stores are now charging per bag or giving you a discount if you bring your own.

We spend as much as 1/3 of our take home pay on groceries. You could reduce this amount and use it to pay off debt or set up an emergency fund. All it takes is discipline, mindfulness, and a little extra time.