A savvy student has sparked widespread discussion online after revealing how they manage to eat well on a tight budget. The 23-year-old shared a picture of their weekly grocery haul from Tesco, with the total cost coming to just £56.
The Viral Weekly Shop Breakdown
Posted on Reddit, the image showcased a surprisingly varied and healthy selection of items intended to last slightly over a week. The haul included essentials and treats such as a bunch of bananas, red peppers, a 12-pack of eggs, orange juice, a bag of Quorn meat alternatives, a variety of cheeses, fresh herbs, berries, and avocados.
Not forgetting a little luxury, the student also included a packet of Tesco's Finest Sea Salt and Chardonnay Vinegar crisps. In the caption, they wrote: "£56 weekly shop for 23yo student. Will probably last me slightly more than a week!"
Online Reaction and Money-Saving Tips
The post quickly gained traction, amassing hundreds of upvotes and comments. Many users praised the effort, with one calling it "Incredible work" and another noting it was "A very healthy grocery shop!".
However, the discussion also veered into finer details, such as the quality of pre-grated cheese and the juice content in some cartons, showing how budget-conscious shoppers are scrutinising value more than ever.
How to Stretch Your Food Budget Further
With the cost of living crisis putting pressure on households and students alike, making your money go further is crucial. Here are some proven strategies:
Plan Your Meals: Deciding what you'll eat for the week ahead prevents waste and impulse buys.
Stick to a List: Write a shopping list and commit to it to avoid unnecessary spending.
Leverage Loyalty Schemes: Always use your Tesco Clubcard or other supermarket apps to access exclusive points and discounts.
Choose Own-Brand: Supermarket own-label products are often significantly cheaper and comparable in quality to branded items.
Hunt for Yellow Stickers: Look for reduced items, often available mid-morning or early evening, for big savings on short-dated products.
Shop Smart: Don't be swayed by end-of-aisle promotions unless you actually need the item.
Grab a Basket: Using a small basket instead of a large trolley can psychologically help you avoid overbuying.
