Most fresh fruits and vegetables will last 1 to 2 weeks if stored properly. Some, such as apples, can even last longer. This means that you can keep an inventory of them and use them for the last two weeks of the month. Meat can be kept in the freezer for a long time, and milk can be frozen too, although it may taste different and have a different texture.
These foods are also cheaper than fresh fruits and vegetables, so stocking up on them is a great way to save money and add variety to your meals. Having a well-planned shopping list is essential for adhering to your healthy eating plan. Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to include fresh produce on a budget. Apples and bananas are staples on my shopping list, and I have plenty of tips on my blog, Groceries on a Budget, for keeping the average monthly cost of food under control.
If you're looking for an economical grocery list for a month, including what foods to buy and what meals to prepare, I can help. As a general rule, anything with an expensive label should be excluded from your monthly budget shopping list. You can also look for fruits that are almost overripe with discounts (that can be used right away or put in the freezer) or even packaged frozen fruit that saves money. When creating your frugal shopping list for the week, it should be detailed and precise.
Don't forget to include oil and spices too! Lastly, cheap grocery stores don't always offer the lowest prices, so it's important to compare prices before you buy.