Wise Spender

Before buying, consumer should ask him/herself a few questions:

  • Do I have sufficient storage space?
  • Do I have plenty of refrigerator and freezer space to keep food fresh?
  • Do I have a large family or friends to share bulk purchases with?

Those who answer yes to those questions can save a lot of money shopping at warehouse, but they should keep these points in mind.

“Sell by” Date/Expiry Date

  • Consumers should always check items for the expiry date
  • Buy items days away from the expiry date
  • Expiration” date indicates when the product should be thrown away

"Sell by” date is the last day a product should be sold

A “best if use by” date tells you when you can expect the quality to be at its peak

Knowing the prices. As always, shoppers need to know prices. All items must be priced either individually or on the shelf that the items are been displayed

Price Comparison

  • The consumer should keep an eye on the labeling of the product. This is required by law.
  • Ask yourself if the store you shop at gives you the best value for money?
  • Make a list of frequently bought items
  • Check out unit prices. A unit price is the cost for the smallest unit of measure, such as a ounce or a milligram.
  • Unit prices also help you to compare similar items made by different manufacturers
  • Buy the food that sells for the least amount per unit, unless you know that the quality is poor or that you don’t need or can’t store a large amount.
  • When items you frequently use are on sale stock up.
  • Remember it’s worth checking out alternatives to the priciest products.
  • Compare ingredients when they are listed on labels to determine how similar products are.
  • Your receipt is your legal document for purchase. Hold on to it in case it is needed at a later date.
  • Always back check your receipt
  • Keep a eye on the cash scanner making sure the price on the item is what is scanned

Living Healthy

  • Buy local produce in season. They are usually fresher and free of pesticides.
  • Wash thoroughly or peel produce.
  • Read and decode food labels, this will help you choose food that make up a healthful diet.
  • Check to make sure that all food labels display nutrition and ingredients list.
  • Return spoiled food or any product you believe is short weighted or expired to the store manager.
  • Report packaged food that is contaminated or spoiled.