This article originally appeared and was published on AOL.com
Whole Foods, the store that sometimes gets flack for being overpriced, is actually one of the most reasonable grocery stores when it comes to offering loyal customers ways to save.
The store has become a symbol for what it means to truly eat healthy. And thanks to certain deals and tricks of the trade, eating right doesn’t have to be expensive.
In fact, Whole Foods will open its first of nearly 20 set-to-open specialty stores on May 25 (called ‘365 by Whole Foods Market’) that will offer lower prices and everyday deals.
Like any trip to any grocery store, it’s wise to go into a Whole Foods shopping trip with a game plan. Luckily, knowing the secrets to save will help you make a shopping list and plan that will save you time and money.
Here are 11 secret tricks to saving every time you shop at Whole Foods:
1. Be wary of dairy in glass containers
If you grab milk or cream from a glass bottle, you’ll be charged for the price of the bottle in addition to its contents. If you must purchase the glass bottle version of the product, be sure to bring it back to Whole Foods next time you’re shopping and customer service will give you a voucher.
2. Bring your own bags
Whole Foods will offer you a five to 10 cent discount from your total for bringing your own bag.
3. Don’t buy Whole Foods pre-packaged containers of fruits and veggies
You’ll end up paying way more and receiving way less. Always opt for the full version of the fruit or vegetable and prepare it yourself.
4. Take advantage of bulk meat deals
Deals on bulk amounts of certain meats vary from location to location. Ask the butcher about what bulk meat deals your local Whole Foods is offering.
5. Look for bright yellow tags
Special deals (that only last for a few days or a week) are unadvertised outside of the store but can be found while shopping by their bright yellow tags.
6. Check out specialty online coupons
You can enter your local Whole Foods store online and print off coupons and deals that are specific to your local Whole Foods–some coupons are valid for up to three months.
7. Buy cases of products you like and save 10 percent
Whether it’s protein bars or wine, Whole Foods will discount a case-sized version of your product for 10 percent, a well worth it investment if it’s a product your consuming often.
8. Shop the Friday-only sales
Stores will offer specialty Friday-only sales that can offer you major one-day savings.
9. Shop the Whole Foods 365 value brand
The store’s value brand is extremely well-priced and will offer you the healthiest version of discounted products, as there will be a significantly lower amount of preservatives than other discount brands, according to Whole Foods.
10. “Like” your local Whole Foods’ Facebook page for news on special deals and discounts
Deals will vary from store to store and are always advertised through social media.
11. Bring your own containers when shopping the bulk section
When weighing your bulk purchase at checkout, Whole Foods will subtract the price of the weight of your container if you bring your own from home instead of using the ones provided in the store.
The store tends to have a cult-like following, and with good reason.
It’s one of the few places you can find quality in quantity and manage to not break your budget at the same time.
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