Grocery stores are a giant marketing experiment. They are always looking for ways to entice you into spending more money. In May Consumer Reports has a great section on how to beat the grocery store game. You can find the whole article here. But here are a few tips:

Shop the Outside Isles. They are the fruit, dairy, and meat sections filled with the staples we need. The middle isles are the ones filled with processed food and all the high calories snacks.

No Convenience. The shredded carrots or pre bagged salad is much more expensive than a bag of whole carrots or a head of lettuce. Consumer Reports asks, how much work is it to peel carrots or chop lettuce?

Buy Bagged Produce. On the other hand, the pre-bagged potatoes or apples are less expensive than buying them individually. But make sure you use the entire bag before is spoils. Otherwise you are cutting into your savings.

Look High and Low. Companies pay for placement and placement at eye level costs more. So take a look at the top and bottom of the shelf because some great deals can be hiding there.

Watch Out for End of Isle Placement. The displays at the end of the isle are really hit or miss. They could be great deals, or just a new product. So watch the price. Also, watch for the add on items. The chips might be on sale but you’ll pay full price for the dip that is sitting there too.

Box Box Does Not Equal Big Savings. Just because you got it at one of those bulk big box discount stores, does not mean you got the best price. Sometimes the price is just a few pennies difference, so compare the price per ounce at your store. Also customers have a tendency to buy more than what the need at these stores because of the prices. Make sure you have a list and stick too it.