When you go into the grocery store without a game plan, you typically end up spending more money and time in the store. That’s where the 6-to-1 method comes in handy. This viral TikTok trend makes grocery shopping easier and more efficient.

The 6-to-1 method is very easy to implement into your habits. You’ll grab six veggies, five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two spreads and one fun thing for yourself. Chef Will Coleman, the creator of the 6-to-1 method, is the self-proclaimed king of grocery shopping. The 6-to-1 method has changed his life and worked for his friends and social media followers who have tried it. 

@chefwillco

Put my 6 to 1 Method to use and cooked my Mom and Brother 6+ MEALS for Under $100! If you’re looking to save time and money on your groceries, give this method a try. All you have to do is grab 6 veggies, 5 fruits, 4 proteins, 3 starches, 2 sauces or spreads, and 1 fun thing for yourself and you’ll be able have ingredients to make your family 6+ meals throughout the week! Which recipe should I share first from this weeks meals? #fyp #groceryshopping #howto #6to1method #budget

♬ original sound – Chef Will Coleman

“Wherever you go grocery shopping … use the 6-to-1 method,” he said. “This makes grocery shopping way easier, way cheaper, and you get in and out so you’re not there all day long.”

The ultimate goal of the 6-to-1 method is to use its rules as a foundation. For larger families, the method can be adjusted to accommodate the need. Follow the 6-to-1 method as a rule-of-thumb, and prioritize having more vegetables, fruit and protein than anything else in the fridge. For families, he explained that it’s helpful to get duplicates of vegetables or proteins in your cart in order to make meals stretch. 

@chefwillco

If you’re looking to use the 6 to 1 grocery shopping method and are curious if it’ll work for your family, then this video is for you.

♬ original sound – Chef Will Coleman

Breaking Down Your Cart

The 6-to-1 method helps you shop more intentionally, which helps eliminate food waste. It’s essential to choose the best options for yourself or your family’s needs.

Regardless of whether they are fresh or frozen, vegetables should appear in your shopping cart the most. Prioritize buying in-season vegetables, as they are typically cheaper and fresher. Leafy greens, like kale and spinach, are also great to buy. Hearty root vegetables, like yams, onions and garlic, are perfect to have in the kitchen at all times. Use these six items to curate healthy meals for the family.

In the fruit category, there are a variety of options to choose from. Fruit, like bell peppers, tomato and avocados, can enhance meals, while others, like berries, mango and watermelon, are perfect for snacks and smoothies.

Protein is more than just chicken, beef, and fish. Coleman emphasized that it also encompasses beans, eggs, yogurt, tofu, chickpeas and mushrooms.

When you think of starches, the less healthy options, like rice, bread and pasta, may come to mind. However, try opting for healthier alternatives, like beans, whole grains, and minimally processed vegetables. 

For the sauces category, you can try making this at home. Whether it’s a lemon vinaigrette dressing, a pesto, a crushed tomato sauce, a salsa, or a guacamole, there are many options for a healthy sauce or spread. You can also purchase premade garlic spreads or hummus to tie your meals together. 

The last item in the 6-to-1 method is a treat to yourself. Whether it’s ice cream, cookies or cake batter, don’t be afraid to treat yourself.