Financial planners share grocery shopping tips to lower bills amid inflation

Financial planners Kelli Smith of Edelman Financial Engines and Ted Jenkin of Exit Stage Left Advisors told Fox Business that consumers can reduce grocery spending through meal planning, making shopping lists, checking unit prices, and shopping the pantry first.

Smith advised using digital coupons and loyalty programs but warned against chasing deals or letting rewards dictate spending, as unnecessary purchases can negate savings. Jenkin recommended limiting trips to once a week and proper food storage to reduce waste.

These tips come as Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows overall food prices rose 2.5% over the past year, with groceries up 1.8% and restaurant meals up 3.5%, as inflation remains above the Federal Reserve's 2% target.