Essential Life Hacks for Shopping at Whole Foods

Most of us have a love-hate relationship with Whole Foods. The place has a reputation of being so ridiculously expensive, yet still. . . The extent of the range and quality of their products is something that can’t be denied. Are you particular with how your vegetables are grown and sourced? Whole Foods’ organic produce department is for you. Does a recipe call for a weird and exotic ingredient that you haven’t heard of? Chances are, Whole Foods has it in stock.

Shopping in Whole Foods doesn’t have to be that expensive. Here are some life-changing hacks that can help you score some premium quality healthy food without breaking your wallet.

1. Take Advantage of Coupons and Social Media

This is a pretty straightforward tip, but one that is so often overlooked by most. Did you know that some Whole Foods locations provide coupon books? You can usually find these near the front of the store. Alternatively, you can ask customer service if they can provide you with one. The company also likes to reward their followers with coupons, discounts, and exclusive sneak peeks on social media from time to time, should you ever want to catch some of these deals.

2. Buy 365

Like most chain grocery stores, Whole Foods stock their generic brand of products and produce called 365 Everyday Value. If you’re not nitpicky about name brands, then go for 365 the next time you go out for groceries.

3. Go “Whole” Foods

When you’re at Whole Foods, go buy actual “whole” foods. Processed food (ex. veggies that come already sliced, diced, julienned, etc.) are more expensive because of the added labor cost that comes with their production. Instead, buy whole, unpacked veggies and fruits from the produce aisle to save on costs.

4. Buy Your Groceries on Specific Days

Try going to your local Whole Foods on a Wednesday. Chances are, you’ll be able to get your first pick of items that will be on sale for the rest of the week since this is usually the day when the week’s deals are usually announced. It’s important to note that stores’ policies on sales vary from one location to another (some locations do Friday-only sales, for example). If you’re looking to avoid long lines instead of lower prices, then swing through the store on Thursday or any weekday morning.

5. Keep a Calculator On-Hand

A simple tip to save up on cost is to buy in bulk. However, this is not the case 100 percent of the time. It’s best to whip out a calculator and do the math to see if you’re better off buying pre-packaged items instead of bulk ones.

6. Take Advantage of Freebies

Have kids? Enroll them in your local Whole Foods’ Kids Club, where they can get free treats and freebies (as well as a lot of educational materials about health and healthy eating). Most locations also offer free samples of products- not only do you get a free snack, but you can also sample the food while you’re at it.