Running into the grocery store for a quick errand often tempts us to grab whatever seems easiest to save time.

Those pre-prepped items like chopped melons or bagged salads sure look convenient, but they come with hidden costs.

From being overpriced to impacting the environment or even posing health risks, here’s a list of things you might want to reconsider buying.

1. Bagged Salad Kits

Why to Avoid: While convenient, bagged salad kits are significantly pricier per serving than making your own. Plus, their pre-chopped ingredients spoil faster than whole heads of lettuce.

What to Do Instead: Buy fresh greens and chop them yourself for longer shelf life and better value.

2. Bottled Water

Why to Avoid: Bottled water often comes from repackaged tap water. It adds unnecessary costs and contributes to plastic waste. Additionally, plastic bottles can leach harmful contaminants over time.

What to Do Instead: Invest in a reusable water bottle and a water filter for clean, eco-friendly hydration.

3. Pre-Cut Fruit

Why to Avoid: Pre-cut fruit is expensive and spoils faster than whole fruit. It can also pick up bacteria or pathogens during the slicing process.

What to Do Instead: Take a few extra minutes to slice whole fruits at home for better taste, freshness, and cost savings.

4. Frozen Meats

Why to Avoid: Frozen meats are practical for long-term storage, but fresh cuts have superior flavor and texture. If you plan to cook within a few days, fresh is the way to go.

What to Do Instead: Buy fresh meat and only freeze what you can’t use immediately.

5. Pancake Mixes

Why to Avoid: Pre-made mixes like Bisquick aren’t saving you much effort—you still have to add eggs, milk, and oil. Plus, they’re less economical and may contain unnecessary additives.

What to Do Instead: Keep flour, baking soda, and salt in your pantry to whip up pancakes from scratch. It’s simple, cheaper, and healthier.

6. Vinaigrette Dressings

Why to Avoid: Bottled vinaigrettes are often overpriced and loaded with preservatives. Homemade dressing is quick, cost-effective, and tastes fresher.

What to Do Instead: Mix two parts oil with one part vinegar, then add a pinch of salt, mustard, or honey to your liking. Shake it up, and you’re done!

7. Some Frozen Produce

Why to Avoid: While frozen peas, corn, and edamame retain their quality, others like broccoli and peppers lose texture and flavor. Frozen berries also work better for cooking than eating fresh.

What to Do Instead: Stick to fresh produce for vegetables and berries that you plan to eat raw. Save frozen options for soups, sauces, or smoothies.

Making mindful choices at the grocery store not only saves money but also reduces waste and ensures you get the best quality. Sometimes a little extra effort goes a long way in making meals more satisfying—and more sustainable!