Some grocery items don't have strong seasonal patterns, but that doesn't mean you can't save money on them.
Grains, Beans, and Pasta
dried beans are a great source of protein
These shelf-stable staples saw significant price increases in Pennsylvania—they were a major driver of our state's higher-than-average grocery inflation. While seasonal patterns are minimal, prices do fluctuate with grain harvests and global commodity markets.
Money-Saving Strategies:
- Use Smopper to compare prices across stores—variations can be 30-40%
- Buy in bulk when on sale—these items store indefinitely
- Consider buying at international markets for rice, beans, and pasta
Canned Goods
Unlike fresh produce, canned goods don't show strong seasonal price swings. However, you'll often find sales around major holidays when stores stock up for holiday meals.
Best Times for Deals:
- Thanksgiving week (canned pumpkin, cranberry sauce, green beans)
- Around Christmas (baking supplies, canned fruit)
- Back-to-school season (soups, canned vegetables)