How to Eat More Sustainably Without Going Broke

Did you know your food choices might be contributing to climate change, deforestation and pollution? Foods like beef, chocolate, dairy, seafood and even coffee, leave the biggest carbon footprint behind. This is why you should practice mindful grocery shopping. You can reduce your impact and help support a healthier future for everyone at the same time! Just follow our easy-to-follow guide below.

1. Prioritize Plant-Based Foods

Why it works:

Plant-based diets are generally better for the environment and more affordable than animal-heavy ones.

Try these cost-effective swaps:

• Lentils and beans
• Chickpeas
• Root vegetables(carrots, potatoes, beets)
• Seaweed
• Mushrooms

2. Plan Your Meals

Why it works:

Planning ahead cuts down on food waste and impulsive (often pricey) food buys.

Tips to get started:

• Make a simple weekly menu based on seasonal foods and sales.
• Use leftovers in new ways; soups, wraps, grain bowls.
• Plan meals around what’s on offer or what you can buy in bulk.

3. Buy Seasonal and Local Produce

Why it works:

Seasonal produce is cheaper, fresher, and better for the environment.

Where to find it:

• Shop at farmers’ markets or sign up for a local veggie box.
• When fresh produce is out of season, go for frozen or canned; they’re just as nutritious and last longer.

4. Reduce Food Waste

Why it works:

Less waste = less money thrown away. Plus, it’s a huge step toward sustainability.

Easy ways to waste less:

• Store fresh items properly (e.g. greens in airtight containers with paper towels).
• Freeze leftovers or meal prep extras to use later.
• Buy “imperfect” or discounted produce.

5. Choose Whole Foods Over Processed Options

Why it works:

Whole foods are usually cheaper, healthier, and come with less packaging.

How to start:

• Get oats, rice, lentils, and quinoa instead of boxed mixes or cereal bars.
• Buy whole fruit and veg instead of pre-cut or pre-packaged versions.

6. Buy in Bulk

Why it works:

Bulk buys save money and reduce packaging waste.

What to bulk-buy:

• Dry goods like beans, grains, lentils, pasta.
• Tinned goods, spices, and baking supplies.

7. Opt for Store Brands

Why it works:

Store-brand items are usually the same quality as name brands. Just without the fancy label.

Best staples to swap:

• Rice, pasta, oats
• Tinned tomatoes, beans, frozen veg
• Cleaning products and condiments

8. Cut Down on Meat Consumption

Why it works:

Animal farming has a large environmental impact. Plus, meat is expensive.

Simple meat-free ideas:

• Do a “Meatless Monday” or make one plant-based meal per day.
• Try tofu, eggs, lentils, or canned beans as protein alternatives.

9. Make Simple Swaps

Why it works:

Little changes go a long way; both financially and environmentally.

Swap these out:

• Bottled drinks → tap water + fruit or mint
• Expensive meats → canned fish or cheaper cuts for stews
• Takeaway snacks → home-packed trail mix or fruit

10. Grow Your Own Food

Why it works:

Even a few pots of herbs can save money and reduce food miles.

Start small with:

• Basil, mint, or parsley on a windowsill
• Salad greens or cherry tomatoes in containers
• Regrow spring onions or lettuce from scraps

11. Use Coupons and Rewards Programs

Why it works:

Free savings = more money for the good stuff.

Where to look:

• Supermarket apps or loyalty programs
• Coupon sites, flyers, or even your email inbox
• Cashback apps for groceries and household items

Final Thoughts

Sustainable eating doesn’t mean shopping at pricey health stores or buying only organic. Sustainable eating means carefully selecting what you’re buying, using and wasting. 

But don’t stress; you don’t have to completely follow “the rules”. One small change can make the biggest change in your habits. And a positive change in habits is a positive change for the environment.