I Grew Up Poor: 8 Groceries I Never Buy To Save Money

Growing up in the Bronx with limited means, Drew K. learned early on how to stretch a dollar at the grocery store. His childhood experiences shaped his shopping habits, teaching him valuable lessons about frugality and smart spending. Drew shared his insights on which items he still avoids to keep his grocery bill in check — and if you’re looking to save more money, take a look at more ideas for National Savings Day .

Read More: Warren Buffett: 10 Things Poor People Waste Money On

Try This: 5 Low-Risk Ways To Build Your Savings in 2025

Here are eight groceries he never buys to save money .

It's Going Viral: Want to Retire Rich? Suze Orman Says You're Missing This Key Money Move

Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables

“Sure, they’re convenient, but the markup is insane,” Drew said. “I can spend five minutes chopping a melon at home and save myself a few bucks. It’s not just about the money — it’s about respecting the value of my labor versus what I’m being charged for someone else’s.”

Find Out: 9 Things the Middle-Class Should Consider Downsizing To Save on Monthly Expenses

Name-Brand Cereals

Drew remembers his childhood breakfasts fondly. “We always had the store brand cereals,” he said. “They taste just as good, and they’re often made in the same factories as the fancy boxes.”

Now, as an adult, he still can’t justify paying extra for a cartoon character on the box.

Bottled Water

“Growing up, tap water was all we had, and it was fine,” Drew said. “Now, I use a filter pitcher at home. Buying bottled water feels like throwing money down the drain, literally.”

Single-Serving Snack Packs

Drew shook his head at these.

“Those little bags of chips or cookies might seem cheap, but you’re paying for all that extra packaging,” he said. “I buy the big bag and portion it out myself. It’s better for my wallet and the environment.”

Pre-Made Sandwiches

“I learned to make sandwiches before I could ride a bike,” Drew shared. “Paying $8 for something I can make for $2 at home just doesn’t sit right with me. Plus, I can customize it exactly how I like it.”

Specialty Coffees

Drew admitted this one was a learning curve. “When I first started working, I thought fancy coffee was a status symbol. Now, I realize it’s a money pit. I make great coffee at home for a fraction of the cost.”

Out-of-Season Produce

“My mom taught me to eat with the seasons,” Drew explained. “Buying strawberries in December is not only expensive, but they don’t even taste good. I stick to what’s in season and abundant.”

Prepared Salad Kits

Drew laughs when he sees these in the store. “A bag of chopped lettuce with a tiny packet of dressing and croutons for $5? No way. I can make a week’s worth of salads for that price if I buy the ingredients separately.”

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : I Grew Up Poor: 8 Groceries I Never Buy To Save Money