It’s no secret that food prices at Canadian grocery stores have increased significantly over the past few years. With food prices continuing to rise in 2026, staying within budget can be challenging especially for those who receive provincial disability benefits. Here are some tips to better navigate the aisles and find real deals in this high inflation environment.
Store Flyers and loss leaders
Sale items are meant to get shoppers inside the store so they can also buy overpriced groceries that are not on sale. Disappoint them by passing on expensive food items and stock up the pantry when things are on sale.
25%, 30% and 50% stickers
These stickers are like food gold in grocery stores. Most stores follow a predictable pattern, marking down items nearing best before dates either first thing in the morning or just before closing. To take the guesswork out of the hunt, just ask the staff. This could provide a heads up of getting in on the good stuff before it’s all snatched up. Use the food discount calculator too see the exact cost of discounted food items.
Apps
It’s no longer just about clipping coupons and scouring flyers for deals. In this highly progressive digital world we can use apps such as Flashfood, ToGoodToGo & FoodHero to save some bucks.
Flashfood – Mostly the Loblaws brand stores, that is, No Frills, Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore and Zehrs list items nearing their best before or sell before date at great discounts. Food items are added throughout the day as they become available.
Too Good To Go – This app is perfect for baked goods, prepared meals, and even Surprise Bags of produce or fruit. Food items are from restaurants such as Tim Hortons, local bakeries, pizza places and grocery stores such as Metro. Much of the time you don’t get to see what you are buying before you buy (other than the price) so it may be best for those who aren’t picky about what they eat.
FoodHero – Deals from the Sobey’s brand stores. 50% off meat, fish, bakery items, dairy, fruits & veggies, ready made meals and other items.
Loyalty points systems
Loyal point system can be very generous if used properly. Canadians are lucky to have some of the most robust rewards programs in the world, such as PC Optimum, Scene+, Canadian Tire Points, and Air Miles. Don’t forget to load offers before shopping!
While more well known for technology, electronics and retail bargains, there are always grocery deals to be found on Redflagdeals in the hot deals forums. More specifically, there is a Grocery subcategory where cheap Canadians fighting against inflation congregate to discuss trending grocery deals.