For a growing family or a starving singleton, the growing cost of groceries can make a huge dent in your monthly budget. But, they don't have to. You can eat well without breaking the bank, and we're going to show you how. Keep reading for 7 tips you can use to save money at the grocery store every week.

1. Never shop hungry.

How many times have you headed into a grocery store and come out with a number of food products you ordinarily seldom purchase?

Numerous studies have shown that consumers who shop hungry purchase up to 40 percent more on food than customers with full stomachs. Before you head out to the grocery store, eat a snack to help curb your appetite.

If you don't have time to get in a snack or you're stopping into the store on your way home from work, then grab a fruit bar or power bar from the health aisle and munch it down as you shop. You can pay for it once you get up to the cashier; just save the wrapper.

2. Always buy on sale.

Try to always buy staple items on sale and don't be afraid to test store brands. If you come across a favorite item that's on sale for a good price and isn't perishable, definitely stock up on it for future use.

Additionally, people who are willing to take a little time to clip coupons and make purchases accordingly can save several hundreds of dollars in grocery costs over the course of a year.

3. Buy bulk.

Buying items in bulk quantity will save you money, as long as you can use them before their expiration dates. For example, purchasing a 48-roll package of toilet paper is typically going to cost you almost a dollar less per paper foot than buying a tiny 4-roll package. If you have a little extra storage room in a closet or garage for larger quantity items, you will preserve a lot of your hard-earned income.

4. Sign up for a rewards card.

Most grocers offer a rewards, a points program, or discounts that are only available to card holders. To reap the benefits of these programs, you'll have to sign up for the card. Admittedly you sacrifice some of your privacy and may end up receiving additional junk mail or email, but if you don't mind that relatively minor inconvenience, you will save a lot of money.

5. Compare prices the right way.

Instead of comparing prices based on what's written on the tag, look at the price per gallon or the price per gram (that is, whatever its price per unit). You'll get a much more accurate reflection of where the true savings are. Most stores print this information on the price tag - but if your store doesn't, then remember to bring along a calculator to do your own quick apples-to-apples comparisons.

6. Buy local.

Whenever possible, try to buy locally produced products and produce. If you have access to a local farmer's market, you'll find that you can save almost double by buying your produce direct from the farmer.

7. Buy produce in season.

Instead of trying to enjoy $8 strawberries in November, opt instead for a tasty apple. Buying produce in season will save you a ton of money. So, look for recipe ideas in the store or online to make the most out of this season's fruits and veggies.