As the cost of living continues to rise, Australians are feeling the pinch, especially when it comes to grocery shopping. But there's a silver lining for savvy seniors looking to stretch their dollars further. Recent findings by Guardian Australia have revealed that by making a simple switch from the big two supermarkets to local markets and independent grocers, shoppers could save up to a whopping $20 per kilogram on meat purchases.

The investigation, which compared prices of various cuts of meat and seafood across different shopping venues in Melbourne, found that the most significant savings were at places like Queen Victoria Market and independent stores such as Famous Halal Quality Meat & Groceries in Footscray and Peter’s Meats in Brunswick. For example, lamb cutlets, a staple in many Australian households, were found to be significantly cheaper at these locations compared to Woolworths and Coles, even when the latter had discounts in place.


The cost of groceries is a major concern for many, with the average household spending around $189 a week, which adds up to nearly $10,000 annually, according to research from Finder. With some Australians cutting back on red meat and fish due to the cost-of-living crisis, exploring local markets could be a game-changer, offering both savings and a chance to support local businesses.


Take Felicity, a regular at the markets in central Melbourne, who estimates she saves hundreds of dollars a year by shopping there. Not only does she enjoy the cost benefits, but she also prefers the quality of the cuts available at the market. Similarly, Jessica and David, who spend about $300 a week at the markets, insist that the variety and quality of meat they find there is superior to what's offered at Coles and Woolworths.


While Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing, citing factors such as seasonality, specifications, and supplier costs, the message from consumers is clear: the quality, freshness, and price at local markets and independent grocers are often hard to beat.

But it's not just about the price. Food literacy advocate Alice Zaslavsky points out that convenience often comes with a premium. She encourages consumers to consider alternative sources for meat, such as local markets or services like Wolki Farm, which delivers frozen grass-fed meats. Ethical sourcing is another factor that's increasingly important to shoppers, with businesses like Discovered Wildfoods offering venison and other meats from feral animals, providing a sustainable and ethical choice.

Planning is key to making the most of your grocery budget. Sarah Megginson from Finder suggests that a weekly shop with a list can help avoid impulse buys and ensure you stick to what you truly need. By being more strategic with your shopping habits, you can save money without compromising on the quality of your food.



So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, it's time to embrace the local markets and independent grocers in your area. Not only will you enjoy the freshest cuts of meat and the best deals, but you'll also be contributing to the local economy. Share your experiences with us in the comments below – have you found great deals at your local market? Do you have tips for fellow seniors on how to save on groceries? Let's help each other make the most of our budgets in these challenging times.