Why budget-savvy shoppers are trading snacks for soup this summer
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Chips and cookies might be fun, but this summer, a classic pantry favorite is quietly stealing the spotlight—canned soup.
That familiar red-and-white label is turning up in more carts across the country, signaling a subtle but surprising shift in how people are shopping.
From condensed soups to boxes of mac-and-cheese and jarred sauces, pantry staples are slipping back into the spotlight—and it’s not just about taste.
If your grocery haul is starting to look more like something from decades past, you’re not alone.
But behind this back-to-basics movement is a story worth paying attention to.
Pantry staples are making a comeback
According to Campbell’s, Americans are cooking at home more than they have since the early days of the pandemic.
Sales of their meals and beverages, including soups and pasta sauces, jumped 6% last quarter.
Meanwhile, their snack sales dipped by 5%—a telling sign that shoppers are prioritizing value.
With restaurant prices still climbing, more families are turning to staples that offer both nutrition and affordability.
A can of soup or a box of mac-and-cheese costs far less than takeout or even a bag of chips, especially when you're feeding a household.
Also read: You won’t believe the new “inconvenient” step grocery customers face as soon as they enter
Why snack sales are slipping
Research from NIQ shows that 42% of consumers are cutting back on snacks, and 37% are actively searching for better deals.
Many are choosing store brands over pricey name brands, and snack giants are feeling the shift.
Even big companies like PepsiCo and Mondelēz are reporting slowed sales.
Meanwhile, retailers like Dollar General are seeing a boost as shoppers turn to discount stores for pantry basics.
Also read: Stop wasting money today: The grocery items that are draining your wallet revealed!
The real cost of eating out
It’s no secret that dining out has become expensive.
Federal data shows restaurant prices are up nearly 4% compared to last year—double the rise of grocery prices.
Chains like McDonald’s and Olive Garden have noticed a drop in traffic, especially among low- and middle-income diners who are opting to eat at home more often.
Stretching every dollar at the grocery store
Grocery budgets are tight, and many shoppers are getting creative.
Some are even turning to “buy now, pay later” options just to afford food.
In this climate, canned soup and other pantry items are a dependable way to prepare nutritious meals without overspending.
From beans and pasta to rice and canned veggies, these ingredients can be transformed into hearty meals that are easy to make and easy to stretch.
Toss in some leftovers, a sprinkle of cheese, or a handful of frozen veggies, and you’ve got a complete dish on a dime!
Also read: $20 off your grocery bill every month? This credit card trick makes it easy
A healthy shift, too
It’s not just about saving money.
Many shoppers are also paying more attention to nutrition.
Today’s canned soups offer healthier options than in years past, with reduced-sodium, organic, and plant-based varieties now common.
Paired with a side salad or a slice of whole grain bread, soup can be a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Tips to get more out of your pantry
Sometimes, the simplest meals offer the most comfort—and the best value.
Whether you're swapping snacks for soup or stretching your pantry staples a little further, this return to basics might just be the smartest trend of the season!
Read next: Revealed: The states where your grocery bill could skyrocket–And where you can save big!
Are you cooking more at home these days? Swapped snacks for soup lately? Share your favorite budget-friendly meals or pantry recipes in the comments. The GrayVine community is full of creative cooks, and your tip might just inspire someone else!
That familiar red-and-white label is turning up in more carts across the country, signaling a subtle but surprising shift in how people are shopping.
From condensed soups to boxes of mac-and-cheese and jarred sauces, pantry staples are slipping back into the spotlight—and it’s not just about taste.
If your grocery haul is starting to look more like something from decades past, you’re not alone.
But behind this back-to-basics movement is a story worth paying attention to.
Pantry staples like canned soup are making a big comeback as shoppers look for affordable, filling meal options. Image Source: Pexels / Andrea Davis.
Pantry staples are making a comeback
According to Campbell’s, Americans are cooking at home more than they have since the early days of the pandemic.
Sales of their meals and beverages, including soups and pasta sauces, jumped 6% last quarter.
Meanwhile, their snack sales dipped by 5%—a telling sign that shoppers are prioritizing value.
With restaurant prices still climbing, more families are turning to staples that offer both nutrition and affordability.
A can of soup or a box of mac-and-cheese costs far less than takeout or even a bag of chips, especially when you're feeding a household.
Also read: You won’t believe the new “inconvenient” step grocery customers face as soon as they enter
Why snack sales are slipping
Research from NIQ shows that 42% of consumers are cutting back on snacks, and 37% are actively searching for better deals.
Many are choosing store brands over pricey name brands, and snack giants are feeling the shift.
Even big companies like PepsiCo and Mondelēz are reporting slowed sales.
Meanwhile, retailers like Dollar General are seeing a boost as shoppers turn to discount stores for pantry basics.
Also read: Stop wasting money today: The grocery items that are draining your wallet revealed!
The real cost of eating out
It’s no secret that dining out has become expensive.
Federal data shows restaurant prices are up nearly 4% compared to last year—double the rise of grocery prices.
Chains like McDonald’s and Olive Garden have noticed a drop in traffic, especially among low- and middle-income diners who are opting to eat at home more often.
Stretching every dollar at the grocery store
Grocery budgets are tight, and many shoppers are getting creative.
Some are even turning to “buy now, pay later” options just to afford food.
In this climate, canned soup and other pantry items are a dependable way to prepare nutritious meals without overspending.
From beans and pasta to rice and canned veggies, these ingredients can be transformed into hearty meals that are easy to make and easy to stretch.
Toss in some leftovers, a sprinkle of cheese, or a handful of frozen veggies, and you’ve got a complete dish on a dime!
Also read: $20 off your grocery bill every month? This credit card trick makes it easy
A healthy shift, too
It’s not just about saving money.
Many shoppers are also paying more attention to nutrition.
Today’s canned soups offer healthier options than in years past, with reduced-sodium, organic, and plant-based varieties now common.
Paired with a side salad or a slice of whole grain bread, soup can be a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Tips to get more out of your pantry
- Shop sales – Stock up on canned goods when they’re discounted.
- Think outside the can – Use soup as a base for casseroles, pasta bakes, and stews.
- Mix and match – Combine pantry staples like beans, rice, and veggies for easy meals.
- Read the labels – Look for low-sodium or reduced-fat versions if you're watching your health.
- Round it out – Pair pantry meals with simple sides like fruit, veggies, or whole grain toast.
Sometimes, the simplest meals offer the most comfort—and the best value.
Whether you're swapping snacks for soup or stretching your pantry staples a little further, this return to basics might just be the smartest trend of the season!
Read next: Revealed: The states where your grocery bill could skyrocket–And where you can save big!
Are you cooking more at home these days? Swapped snacks for soup lately? Share your favorite budget-friendly meals or pantry recipes in the comments. The GrayVine community is full of creative cooks, and your tip might just inspire someone else!
