How to Save Money on Groceries in Canada (Without Sacrificing Quality)

With grocery prices continuing to rise across Canada, many households are looking for ways to cut costs—without compromising on food quality or nutrition. The good news? It is possible to save money on groceries in Canada while still enjoying high-quality food.

By adopting smarter shopping habits, embracing surplus food, and using the right tools, Canadians can significantly reduce their grocery bills. Here’s how:

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1. Build Smart Grocery Shopping Habits

Saving money at the grocery store starts with a few simple (but powerful) habits:

Plan before you shop

Creating a weekly meal plan and grocery list helps avoid impulse purchases and reduces food waste. When you know exactly what you need, you’re less likely to overspend.

Compare prices and stay flexible

Opt for store brands, buy seasonal produce, and stay open to substitutions. Flexibility allows you to take advantage of deals and discount groceries when they appear.

Avoid shopping hungry

It sounds simple, but shopping on an empty stomach often leads to unnecessary purchases—especially snacks and convenience foods.

These habits alone can lead to noticeable savings but combining them with digital tools takes your grocery savings even further.

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2. Buy Surplus Food—Safely and Smartly

One of the most effective (and underrated) ways to save money on groceries in Canada is by purchasing surplus food.

What is surplus food?

Surplus food includes items that are:

• Approaching their best-before date

• Slightly imperfect in appearance

• Overproduced or overstocked

Importantly, these products are still perfectly good and delicious. In Canada, best-before dates indicate freshness—not food safety.

Why it’s a smart choice

Buying surplus food helps:

• Reduce food waste

• Support more sustainable consumption

• Access quality groceries at a fraction of the price

This is where a grocery savings app can make a big difference.

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3. How the FoodHero App Helps You Save Up to 60%

The FoodHero app connects Canadians with local grocery stores selling surplus food at discounts of up to 60% off.

How it works:

• Browse discounted groceries from nearby stores

• Buy items directly in the app

• Pick them up at you selected time

From fresh produce and bakery items to meat, seafood, and ready-to-eat meals, FoodHero makes it easy to access quality products without breaking the bank.

Why Canadians love FoodHero:

• Significant savings on everyday essentials

• Less food waste, more impact

• Easy-to-use app with local availability

It’s a practical solution for anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget while making a positive environmental choice.