Which of these money-saving strategies do you use or plan to use?

Use fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season

• Broccoli, mangos, oranges, spinach, and strawberries are some of the fruits that are in season from March to May

Read the store ads and/or online sales ads for pricing on fruits and veggies.

• Compare the prices of fruits and vegetables among your favorite stores

Make a grocery list and stick to it.

• Be sure to have a snack before you shop to avoid impulse buys

Compare the prices of canned. frozen, and fresh fruits and vegetables for the best buy.

• Canned and frozen are less expensive. To get the most nutrition for your money, look for fruit canned in 100 percent fruit juice and vegetables that are labeled "low sodium" or "no salt added"

Buy the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables that you will eat before they spoil.

• If you find a bargain on fruits or vegetables, consider buying extra and freezing it. The "Food Freezing Guide" has advice for a range of foods.

Buy fresh vegetables and fruits in their simplest form.

• Pre-cut, ready-to-eat fresh vegetables and fruits are convenient but may cost a lot more. Do a little of the work yourself to stretch you dollars

Consider planting a garden in your yard, a community plot, or a container.

• Visit www.ag.ndsu.edu/horticulture to learn more about gardening

Try setting a goal for more healthful eating.

By Julie Garden-Robinson, Food and Nutrition Specialist, NDSU Extension Service

Featured in Food Wise March 2014 newsletter (PDF)