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Should You Grocery Shop Online?

Using a nationwide grocery delivery service has become an easy and affordable way to grocery shop online.

In today's fast-paced society, this sci-fi way to get healthy and high-quality foods directly to your door just may be the answer to your prayers.

In thinking about whether you should grocery shop online, two concerns will pop up: cost control and quality control.

Myth #1: An online grocery service is too expensive.

Delivery rates can be as low as FREE, depending on which service you use. As far as the grocery budget goes, I've found that I spend less on groceries when I order them online. I think this is because:
  • Instead of loading the cart and crossing my fingers, I can see my bill as I shop which helps keep impulse buys at a minimum.
  • Because I'm browsing aisles online, I'm not being tempted by as many "promotions" and offers to buy things that I don't currently need. (Do I really need another box of exotic tea?)

Don't take my word for it, try using an online grocery delivery service yourself for a month. Then consider whether it's right for you. Here's a review of the top there online grocery stores.

Groceries
{Photo by Dan 4th}

Myth #2: I will get wimpy produce and dented cans.

I must admit, when I first decided to grocery shop online, I wasn't expecting much in the way of good quality produce and dry goods. I had gotten a coupon for $10 worth of free groceries online and I was having one of those weeks. On a whim, (You know, the weeks when you are so busy and your cupboard so bare that you're having cereal and popcorn for dinner.)

I was shocked (and still am) to see how fresh and crisp the fruits and vegetables were. The dry goods were dust and dent-free.

The online grocery delivery services know they can loose your business over a single rotten apple, so they work hard to provide high-quality (and even organic) choices. In fact, I found the quality of goods to even surpass that of some of my local grocery stores.


Update: It's incredibly ironic that after 5 years of ordering from Peapod, the next order after writing this article included some yellow onions that were slightly browned in the center. I contacted Peapod and they offered me the choice of a prompt refund (for the onions) to my checking account or a credit on my next grocery bill. Still, one delivery in 5 years isn't too bad!
Only Peapod and Sam's Club offer fresh produce and meats. I review the pros and cons of using these companies in this article.

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I have really appreciated the extra time I save by using an online grocery service. If you find your schedule overflowing, grocery shop online. It will impress and surprise you!

All the photos on this page can be found at www.flickr.com and were used
according to licensing requirements.

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