Yes, it’s official. Onion prices have finally seen a steep fall over the last few days due to a substantial increase in supplies. That’s some good news indeed. But before you can heave a sigh of relief, let us confess that we are no good when it comes to predicting veggie prices. And since prevention is better than cure, we believe in taking appropriate steps to combat the rising prices in vegetables. Let’s find out how you can save on vegetable shopping.
Buy from your local vendor: With swanky food malls and supermarkets, most of us feel tempted to pick up our weekly stock of veggies from here. But did you know that your local vendor always has the best prices? Fancy food malls cash in on the superb shopping experience (read: AC, packaging, cleanliness), and that’s how you end up feeling the pinch in your pocket.
Develop a rapport with him/ her: At a food mall, you are not likely to interact with anyone while picking up your veggies. But this is not the case with your local vendor. After four or five visits, you will realise that he has started exchanging pleasantries with you! And that’s good we say. Once you have developed that rapport with him, you will know you have saved a penny or two. 🙂
Shop for a week: If you are one of those who likes to cook daily (yes, it can be a stress-buster), then it is a good idea to do your veggie shopping for the entire week. It not only saves you from making multiple visits to the vegetable vendor, but also helps you to keep your expenditure in check.
Prepare a meal calendar: This is easy. All you have to do is prepare a weekly meal calendar to save up on vegetable shopping. Start by deciding your meals day-wise; this not only helps what you plan to cook throughout the week, but also gives you an estimate of your expenses.
Avoid buying pre-cut veggies: Shopping for pre-cut veggies may be a great idea for working women as they make for quicker meals. But not when you wish to save a buck! Also, pre-cut veggies available at food malls may not guarantee the freshness of the produce. And, need we say they come with a heavier price tag?
Buy in kilos, and not in quarter: Indians cannot do without their onions and potatoes which have to be bought in large quantities. If you are one of those who prefers to shop for the week ahead, then it is always a good idea to stick to buying them in kilos. Shopping for vegetables in bulk is sure to bring down your expenses considerably.
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