Convenience foods could be draining your grocery budget

CLEVELAND — Convenience might make dinner faster, but it could also be costing you a lot more at the checkout line.

Some shoppers say the trade-off is worth it.

“I hardly have time to do it myself, and by the time I get back to the house you know… it’s already tiring to do it myself,” Peace Ray, who says he likes to purchase pre-prepared ingredients, said.

But paying for pre-cut or pre-packaged items can quickly add up.

Don’t Waste Your Money: Tips for saving at the store

Skip pre-cut produce: Whole fruits and vegetables almost always cost less per pound.

Buy family- or party-size: Larger packages are often cheaper ounce for ounce.

Do the slicing yourself: Pre-sliced cheese and meat can add up fast.

Check unit pricing: Look at cost per ounce or pound, not just the sticker price