How to Save Money on Groceries in Canada – 15 Proven Tips for 2025

Canadians across the country are noticing higher grocery bills every time they head to the checkout. From fresh produce to dairy and meat, the rising cost of food is putting pressure on household budgets. According to the Canada Food Price Report 2025, families are expected to spend nearly $17,000 this year on groceries alone, which is a significant jump compared to 2024. For many, this has turned grocery shopping into a stressful chore rather than a routine errand.

But here’s the good news: with the right strategies, you don’t have to feel helpless against inflation. By making smart choices like planning meals, shopping for seasonal produce, and using digital tools, you can trim your grocery bill without compromising on quality or nutrition. Canadians today also have access to money-saving resources such as loyalty programs, cashback rewards, and Saving Says CA promo codes and coupons, making it easier than ever to stretch every dollar.

In this guide, we’ll share 15 proven tips on how to save money on groceries in Canada for 2025. Whether you’re a student, a family with kids, or simply looking to cut back on expenses, these practical tips will help you shop smarter and keep more money in your pocket.

Tips on How to Save Money on Groceries in Canada 2025

With food inflation hitting Canadian households hard, many families are searching for smarter ways to stretch their grocery budgets. From using loyalty points to making the most of discount apps, small changes in your shopping habits can add up to hundreds of dollars saved each year. Below are 15 proven strategies plus a bonus tip that every Canadian shopper can start using right away.

1. Set a Realistic Grocery Budget

Start by reviewing your past grocery receipts to identify unnecessary extras. Compare your lower-cost trips with more expensive ones to see where overspending occurs.

Experts recommend spending 10–15% of your household income on groceries. For example:

• Household income: $50,000/year

• Suggested grocery budget: $417–$625/month

Tracking your spending helps you plan better and ensures you have enough left for other essentials.

2. Check Your Pantry and Fridge Before Shopping

Before leaving home, take a careful inventory of your fridge, freezer, and pantry. This prevents buying duplicates and reduces food waste. Apps like Out of Milk or Pantry Check can help you track what’s already at home. Bonus tip: make a note of expiry dates and plan meals around items that need to be used first.

3. Always Shop with a List

Grocery stores are designed to encourage impulse purchases. Snacks, bakery items, and beverages are strategically placed at the entrance. By shopping with a list, you stick to essentials and avoid unplanned buys. Tip: Check your fridge and pantry before making your list so you only buy what you truly need.

4. Use Credit Card Rewards

Certain Canadian credit cards offer rewards on grocery purchases:

• PC Financial Mastercard: earn PC Optimum points

• CIBC Dividend Visa: cashback on groceries

• American Express Cobalt: bonus points at food stores

Redeeming points or cashback can effectively reduce your grocery bills over time.

5. Request Coupons from Brands

Many Canadian food brands offer online coupons and special promotions. Sign up for newsletters from your favourite brands to get deals delivered directly to your inbox. Sometimes, you can even receive free samples.

6. Use Digital Flyers and Grocery Apps

Apps like Flipp and Reebee compile weekly flyers from Canadian retailers. Features include:

• Easy price comparisons

• Notifications for discounts

• Planning shopping trips around weekly promotions

This saves both time and money while ensuring you never miss a sale.

7. Join PC Optimum

One of Canada’s most popular loyalty programs, PC Optimum lets you collect points at Loblaws-owned stores such as:

• No Frills

• Real Canadian Superstore

• Shoppers Drug Mart

Every 10,000 points = $10 off groceries. Your points don’t expire, so you can redeem them anytime for extra savings.

8. Take Advantage of “Eat It Tonight” Discounts

Many grocery stores mark down perishable items near expiry with “Eat It Tonight” stickers, sometimes up to 50% off.

Ideal items include:

• Meat

• Dairy products

• Bakery items

• Ready-to-eat meals

Just make sure to cook or freeze them immediately to avoid spoilage.

9. Manage Subscription Services for Grocery Savings

Many Canadians subscribe to meal kits, grocery delivery services, or specialty food boxes. While convenient, these subscriptions can add up quickly if not monitored. Review all your active subscriptions and determine which ones you actually use and need. Pausing, cancelling, or switching to a more budget-friendly plan can save a significant amount each month. For online grocery delivery services, check Saving Says CA for subscription boxes before renewing or placing an order to maximize savings

10. Shop at Discount Grocery Stores

Chains such as No Frills, FreshCo, and Food Basics are budget-friendly options for Canadians. While they may offer fewer product varieties, the lower prices and promotions make them ideal for cost-conscious shoppers.

11. Buy in Bulk (When Practical)

Buying in bulk can save money, especially at wholesale stores like Costco or Wholesale Club.

• Check if you have storage space for larger items

• Share bulk products with friends or family if you can’t use them all

Buying larger quantities often reduces the per-unit cost significantly.

12. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are not only healthier but often cheaper than packaged snacks. Try shopping at:

• Local farmers’ markets for seasonal deals

• In-season produce for the best prices

• Frozen fruits and veggies as budget-friendly alternatives

13. Avoid Pre-Packaged Foods

Pre-cut vegetables, frozen dinners, and ready-to-eat meals may save time, but they come with a higher price tag. Cooking from scratch:

• Reduces cost per meal

• Allows control over ingredients

• Provides healthier options for your family

14. Organize Your Fridge and Freezer

An organized fridge prevents food waste and avoids buying items you already have. Tips:

• Label leftovers with dates

• Keep older items in front

• Separate foods by type (dairy, meat, vegetables)

15. Cut Back on Dining Out

Meal prepping and batch cooking reduce the temptation to order takeout. Cook extra portions on weekends to cover lunches and dinners during the week. This simple habit can save hundreds of dollars monthly.

Bonus Tip: Use Saving Says CA Promo Codes

When shopping for groceries online or using delivery services in Canada, don’t forget to check Saving Says CA. This platform regularly shares the latest promo codes and coupons for popular Canadian grocery stores, delivery services, and everyday essentials. By using these codes, you can enjoy extra savings on your purchases, reduce your overall grocery expenses, and make your shopping trips more budget-friendly. Checking Saving Says CA before completing your order is a simple step that can add up to significant savings over time, helping you stretch your grocery budget further while still buying the items you need.

Conclusion

Saving money on groceries in Canada doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or convenience. By planning your shopping trips, sticking to a well-prepared list, taking advantage of loyalty programs like PC Optimum, and exploring discounts through apps, flyers, and store promotions, you can make your grocery budget go further.

In addition, incorporating strategies like buying in bulk, opting for generic brands, organizing your fridge, and cooking more meals at home can significantly reduce waste and expenses. For online shopping and delivery, don’t forget to check Saving Says CA for promo codes and coupons, which can help you save even more on your grocery purchases.

Frequently Ask Questions

Q. What is the best way to save money on groceries in Canada?

The best approach combines planning, budgeting, using lists, checking digital flyers, buying generic brands, and taking advantage of loyalty programs like PC Optimum.

Q. Are grocery delivery services more expensive than shopping in-store?

Not always, but delivery fees and service charges can add up. To save, look for promo codes and discounts on Saving Says CA before placing an order.

Q. How can I save money on fresh produce?

Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables, shop at local farmers’ markets, and use “Eat It Tonight” sales for items nearing expiry.

Q. Do generic or store-brand products taste as good as name brands?

Yes, most generic brands in Canada, like No Name and Compliments, have similar quality and flavor as branded items, often at a lower price.

Q. How can subscriptions impact my grocery budget?

Meal kit services, grocery delivery subscriptions, or specialty boxes can add extra costs. Review your subscriptions, pause or cancel unnecessary ones, and check Saving Says CA for applicable promo codes to save money.