Buzz
Photo credit: Viktoriia Bondar/Getty ImagesWith inflation driving up grocery costs, shopping has become a stressful task both mentally and financially. People are constantly on the lookout for ways to cut costs on essential grocery items.
After realizing he was spending too much on groceries while hosting, New York-based chef and social media star Will Coleman developed a method to save money on his shopping trips. Enter the 6 to 1 grocery shopping hack, Coleman's viral technique shared on TikTok.
Here’s the method: You pick six vegetables, five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two sauces or spreads, and one fun item. Vegetables and fruits can be fresh, frozen, canned, or anything in between. The fun item could be whatever lifts your spirits, whether it's a sweet treat or a favorite snack to boost your mood and bring joy.
This method is effective because it provides a clear structure, preventing aimless shopping. You purchase exactly what you need without spending on unnecessary items.
It also simplifies weeknight meal planning since you already have the essentials to create a meal, yet still have room for variety, so you don't feel restricted.
How to Use This Method in Your Grocery Shopping Routine
Though the 6-to-1 method has a clear structure, it’s adaptable to fit your personal preferences. Prepare for your shopping trip with a checklist of what you want to buy to avoid feeling overwhelmed. You can always adjust your choices in-store, but having a plan in hand can make the process smoother, saving you time and hassle.
Stick to your budget. The goal of this shopping method is to save money, so make it work for you by purchasing only the items that fit within your budget, including sale items. It doesn’t matter where you shop—this method can bring savings in almost any grocery store.
