The Penny Stretcher

The 28-day Grocery Stretch Challenge

20 small steps over four weeks. First find out where your grocery money goes, then plan, shop smarter and build a freezer stash. Most people notice the difference by week three.

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Week 1: See where it goes

Before changing anything, find out what you spend and waste.

  • Save every grocery receipt this week How
  • Add up what you spent on groceries and on takeout or eating out How
  • Take stock of your fridge, freezer and pantry How
  • Write down every food you throw away How
  • Set up an "eat first" shelf in the fridge How

Week 2: Plan and list

Plan five dinners and shop from a list.

  • Plan five dinners using something you already have How
  • Write a list grouped by store section and stick to it How
  • Have one leftovers night How
  • Cook one Penny Stretcher recipe How
  • Pack lunch from dinner leftovers at least twice How

Week 3: Shop smarter

Same food, lower prices.

  • Compare unit prices on five items you always buy How
  • Swap three name-brand staples for store brands How
  • Plan at least two meals around the weekly sale flyer How
  • Start a price book for your ten most-bought items How
  • Check whether you qualify for SNAP, WIC or school meals How

Week 4: Cook once, eat twice

Build a freezer stash and lock in the habits.

  • Double one soup, chili or sauce and freeze half How
  • Portion and freeze one family pack of meat How
  • Label and date everything in the freezer How
  • Compare this week's total with week 1 How
  • Pick the three habits you'll keep going How