Written by Courtney Fraser, Bankrate.com (TNS)
Food costs make up a large part of household budgets, and soaring food prices have made strategic shopping essential. Saving money isn’t the only solution, but smartphone apps can help you save big on groceries through cashback offers, digital coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to 10 food-saving apps that are effective for both grocery shopping and eating out.
Popular food saving app
1. Ibotta
Ibotta is one of the most popular cashback apps. It is known for offering cashback rewards on everyday purchases at major retailers. The app allows users to select offers before shopping and earn rewards by scanning receipts after shopping.
Its browser extension enables cashback on online grocery purchases, and its partnerships with retailers offer special deals on essential items.
Strong Points
User-friendly interface Multiple redemption options, including PayPal and gift cards Widely accepted by major retailers Earn bonus rewards when you meet certain goals, such as trying a new product or completing a certain number of offers in a month Masu
Cons
Requires you to select an offer in advance It takes time to reach the cashout minimum Large number of offers can clutter the interface
2. Get your rewards
Fetch Rewards allows users to earn points on receipts from grocery stores, pharmacies, and even gas stations, making it a versatile option for shoppers.
Unlike other cashback apps, Fetch Rewards does not require users to select an offer before shopping. Instead, you can automatically earn points by scanning eligible receipts and then redeem those points for gift cards from major retailers.
Strong Points
No need to select offers in advance Compatible with numerous retailers Earn bonus points through referrals
Cons
Generic brand revenue is limited Gift card redemption only No direct cash reward
3. Flip
Flipp helps users save by combining weekly ads and sales from major retailers into one easy-to-use app. The app helps users with strategic grocery planning by allowing users to search for specific products, compare prices between stores, and create shopping lists based on current promotions. .
Strong Points
Great for matching sales and giving you easy access to local deals and promotions. It integrates with loyalty programs and allows users to clip digital coupons directly from ads. Combining local deals and digital coupons in one place reduces the need for multiple apps.
Cons
Focused on weekly ads, no cashback or offers May not include all local stores Deals are limited to specific weekly promotions
4. Checkout 51
Checkout 51 offers weekly cashback sales at various stores. Similar to Ibotta, but with a slightly different selection of offers. After purchasing selected products, users can upload their receipts to the app to earn cashback. The app updates offers every Thursday, so users have new savings opportunities every week.
Strong Points
Simple and user-friendly interface Available in multiple stores Seasonal promotions often increase cashback rates on some products
Cons
Limited cashback options for fresh produce High cashout minimums Need to quickly upload receipts to avoid missing out on cashback opportunities on eligible items
5. Coupon.com
Coupons.com streamlines the use of digital coupons by integrating with store loyalty cards to automatically save you money at checkout. The platform offers both digital and printable coupons for a variety of brands and retailers. If you want to easily use coupons without the hassle of cutting them out, Coupons.com is a great option.
Strong Points
Automatic discount application through loyalty program Abundant coupons updated frequently Convenient and easy to use as physical coupons are not required at participating stores
Cons
Limited to specific affiliated stores Some coupons have restrictions and expiration dates You need to understand the coupon conditions
6. Kroger App
The Kroger app provides exclusive discounts, digital coupons and personalized discount offers to shoppers who frequent Kroger and its affiliated stores. The platform integrates with store loyalty programs and includes fuel perks for even more savings.
Strong Points
Customized offers based on purchasing patterns Integrated fuel benefits for additional savings Enables users to scan receipts to earn additional benefits on selected items, increasing overall value
Cons
Exclusive to Kroger and affiliated stores
7. Target circle
Target Circle combines a retailer’s loyalty program with exclusive discounts and offers. Members can save on a variety of groceries and other household items, and the app often offers special offers for members.
Strong Points
Seamless online and in-store integration Easy to use both in-store and online shopping Users can participate in community support by voting for charities
Cons
Exclusive to participating stores Rewards may take time to accumulate Some offers have minimum purchase requirements
8. Retail Me Not
RetailMeNot offers a variety of coupons and cashback opportunities for groceries, restaurants, and local services. The platform supports both in-store and online purchases.
Strong Points
Extensive discounts across multiple categories In-store and online coupons, plus cashback portal for even more savings User-friendly with easy access to deals tailored to different needs and tastes
Cons
Coupon value may vary and some offers may have restrictions Limited cashback functionality Not all coupons are guaranteed to work in all stores 9 .Dosh
Dosh is a cashback app that connects directly to your debit or credit card and automatically gives you cashback on purchases at participating stores. This app covers grocery stores and restaurants, eliminating the need to scan receipts or clip coupons.
Strong Points
Automatic savings tracking Stack rewards with other loyalty programs for maximum savings Regular bonus promotions
Cons
Works only with participating merchants Cashback rates may vary and offers may change frequently Redemption process may be confusing for some users
10. Too Good to Go
Too Good To Go is a unique app that helps users save money on food by buying leftovers from local restaurants and bakeries at a discount. Users can receive these leftover meals at a discounted price, which is good for their finances and the environment.
Strong Points
Offers a unique savings model focused on reducing food waste while providing affordable meal options Contributes to sustainability efforts by being environmentally friendly and reusing food that would otherwise go to waste Local Various meal options by company
Cons
Market availability is limited Dietary options may be unpredictable
conclusion
Food savings apps offer multiple ways to reduce your grocery and eating out costs without compromising quality or variety. These tools, combined with strategic shopping habits, can help you manage your food budget more effectively. When choosing an app, consider your shopping preferences and habits and remember that using multiple platforms can potentially maximize your savings.
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First published: January 21, 2025 at 2:25pm EST
