Food prices have risen sharply the past 5 years.  Ways to trim your grocery budget in 2026... helping both your wallet and your waistline.

Cincinnati

Following the holiday season, both shoppers and experts are recommending a reset of food budgets to improve financial health in 2026. Consumers at Cincinnati's ETC market report plans to cut back on food spending, reduce dining out, and focus on healthier, whole food purchases.

Retail and consumer experts suggest several strategies to lower grocery bills, such as opting for store brands over premium products, avoiding overbuying at warehouse clubs, and shopping the perimeter of stores for better value. Additional tips include planning meals around sales, using store apps for discounts, and making use of leftovers to stretch budgets further.

Food budget reset: How to cut your grocery bill in 2026

After weeks of holiday parties and big holiday meals, it might be time for a food budget reset in the new year to help both your waistline and your wallet. Here at the ETC market, grocery shoppers say they plan to cut back in the new year. The denim family is already tightening its budget. I probably will cut back on food and continue to not drink much in January. We typically do a dry January as well, cutting back on some of the sweets and the heavier foods. Erica Turnbull plans to dine out less, start buying more like whole foods and less eating out. I'm gonna try for do's and don'ts at the grocery store. We asked a trio of retail and consumer experts for their grocery fails and what to do instead. The first buying too many premium products that don't need to be premium. Instead, opt for high quality store brands where you're getting again the same product, ideally the same quality, but you just don't have the brand on it. Next, overdoing it at warehouse clubs. I think it's going to the Costco or the Sam's club and just over buying and they end up throwing a bunch of it away. Lastly, shopping inside of the aisles as opposed to shopping the perimeter. And so that is going to be where you're going to get the most bang for your buck, your vegetables, your proteins, other methods for saving. Plan your meals around what's on sale. Don't just shop at eye level, download your store's app for exclusive savings and use leftovers to stretch your budget. I am on the precipice of my 50th year on earth, so I want to get in shape and I want to be the best version of myself that I can do. A little reset in January will lower your food budget and keep resolutions on track so you don't waste your money. John Mattery, Scripps News Group.

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Kyiv

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