Plus, these are the misconceptions you may have about food shopping on a budget.
Fortunately, there are accessible solutions for buying nutritious foods without breaking the bank.
Jones:We are “all foods fit” dietitians, so that includes “processed” foods.
Photo: Getty Images
We like to educate folks that there are different types of processed foods.
There’s minimally processed, and there’s ultra-processed.
We are huge fans of canned foods.
Courtesy of Wendy Lopez & Jessica Jones
We’re also big fans of other canned foods as well, like canned beans.
I love pre-chopped vegetables.
One of my all-time favorites is microwaveable rice.
EatingWell:Do you have any tips for someone trying to eat healthier and on a budget?
Lopez:I think preserved foods are a great way to start.
In that case, I would really recommend frozen foods.
Any pop in of vegetables and fruits you might buy frozen.
That’s also a great way to save some money.
EatingWell:What’s a misconception you wish people didn’t have about food shopping on a budget?
Jones:I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that it always has to be fresh.
You’re still going to have that great taste, and it’s also very convenient.
I also think that people need to just keep it simple.
People are often trying to overhaul their whole diet overnight, and that’s not necessary.
Lopez:We’re really big on making nutrition accessible and practical.
I think it just helps take a lot of the stress out of cooking.
EatingWell:What does “eating well” mean to you?
Jones:For me, it’s trying to eat consistently.
It’s taking a pause and eating a snack or eating a meal.
In general, don’t let “perfect” get in the way of “good.”
