US supermarkets are big and can feel tiring at first. Most follow the same layout, so after one visit the next is easier.
Around the outside walls: fresh food. Fruit and vegetables (produce), bread (bakery), meat and fish, milk and eggs (dairy).
Middle aisles: dry and canned food, snacks, drinks, spices, cleaning products, paper towels. Signs above each aisle list what is inside.
Deli counter: sliced meat and cheese, ready meals. Take a number and order by weight, for example "half a pound of turkey, sliced thin".
Frozen section: long aisles with glass doors.
International aisle: rice, spices and sauces from many countries.
Fruit and vegetables are often priced per pound (lb). One pound is about 450 grams. A sign saying "$1.99/lb" means you pay by weight at checkout.
Every shelf label has a small unit price: the price per ounce, per pound or per count.
A 16-ounce jar for $4.00 is $0.25 per ounce.
A 24-ounce jar for $5.40 is $0.225 per ounce, so the big jar is cheaper.
Store brands (the supermarket's own label) are usually cheaper than famous brands and often similar in quality.
Except for infant formula, federal law does not require dates on food. The words are set by the maker:
Best if used by / Best by: the date for best taste and quality. It is not a safety date.
Sell by: tells the store how long to display it. You can still eat it after this date if it was stored properly.
Use by: the last date recommended for best quality. For infant formula, do not use it after this date.
If food smells bad, has mold, or the package is swollen, throw it away regardless of the date. Keep your fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below.
The Nutrition Facts box shows calories, fat, sugar and salt per serving. Check the serving size: a bag may hold three servings.
The ingredients list goes from largest to smallest amount.
Major allergens (such as milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy and sesame) must be clearly named.
Put your items on the belt and say "Paper or plastic?" if asked. Many cities charge for bags or ban plastic bags. Bring reusable bags.
Scan your store app for member prices (see the guide on coupons).
Throwing away good food the day after "sell by".
Ignoring the unit price and buying by package size.
Leaving meat or milk in a hot car. Go straight home or bring a cooler bag.