24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (2024)

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (1)

From the best snacks at Publix to the top meal prep items, you'll want to add all of these staples to your cart.

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The Southern-based grocery chain, which has been around for nearly one hundred years, is beloved for its top-notch customer service, supreme prices and quality in-house products — and these perks span far beyond the brand's fried chicken and bakery items.

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Turns out, Publix's GreenWise line of natural and organic products is a great option if you're shopping for healthy picks. From wholesome breakfasts and snacks to ready-made dinners, there's a lot to choose from.

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Best of all: You can order everything online for delivery or take advantage of their in-store or curbside pickup services. (You won't pay a fee for curbside pickup; instead, the food costs are marked up slightly.)

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So what should you add to your cart? Here's a look at the best Publix food products that win big on nutrition, convenience and deliciousness.

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1. GreenWise Turkey Meatballs

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (2)

These provide a super smart way to add some protein to your pasta night.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 130 calories, 5 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat), 410 milligrams sodium, 6 grams carbohydrates (1 gram fiber, 1 gram sugar), 17 grams protein

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Keep these frozen meatballs on hand for fast spaghetti dinners or even for tucking into sandwiches. "Turkey meatballs have much less saturated fat than typical meatballs and have less sodium, but are still packed with flavor," says Jenna Braddock, MSH, RD and creator of the online course Grocery Shop With Confidence.

Buy it:Publix.com; ​Price​: $6.63 for 12 ounces

2. GreenWise Black Bean Burgers

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (3)

These black bean burgers are so versatile; whether you grill 'em on the BBQ or chop them up for a stirfy, they're bound to be delicious.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 140 calories, 7 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 320 milligrams sodium, 15 grams carbohydrates (3 grams fiber, 3 grams sugar), 6 grams protein

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Whether you're stocking up for a veggie cookout or just want to have a fiber- and protein-packed option on hand for fast lunches and dinners, these spiced patties are a great go-to. "Black bean burgers are a delicious way to get a serving of beans in and they save you a lot of prep time in the kitchen," says Braddock. "These are fairly low in calories, so bigger appetites can easily enjoy two patties."

Buy it:Publix.com; ​Price​: $5.31 for 4 patties

3. GreenWise Organic Mediterranean Style Quinoa

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (4)

Convenience is the name of the game with this jazzy quinoa mix.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 190 calories, 8.5 grams fat (2 grams saturated fat), 405 milligrams sodium, 26 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 1 grams sugar), 6.5 grams protein

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"This is a great example of where frozen foods can be healthy and make life easier," Braddock says. Packed with spinach, tomato and feta-cheese, this protein-rich quinoa pilaf can essentially be a meal all by itself.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $4.41 for 10 ounces

4. GreenWise Organic Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (5)

These chips are a slightly healthier alternative to your conventional tortillas.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 140 calories, 7 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 100 milligrams sodium, 18 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar), 2 grams protein

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White corn and sweet potatoes join forces for a healthier take on the tortilla chip with loads of sweet-salty goodness. "The chips are lower in saturated fat and trans fat than typical tortilla chips, and they have a good amount of vitamin A," says Braddock.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $3.31 for 8 ounces

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (6)

With these, you'll your chicken dinner on the table in no time, and you won't have to worry about any funky additives.

  • Nutrition varies

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Quick-cooking and packed with protein, chicken tenders are a good option to keep on hand for fast, filling meals. The fact that they're organic is even better. "This chicken is a good option if you are concerned about the chicken being raised without antibiotics, hormones, and being fed vegetarian diets," Braddock says.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $8.29 for 1 pound

6. Publix Premium Basil & Tomato Pasta Sauce

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (7)

Sometimes it's hard to remember that jarred tomato sauces can be packed with added sugar. Luckily, this one isn't.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 60 calories, 1 gram fat (0 grams saturated fat), 400 milligrams sodium, 11 grams carbohydrates (3 grams fiber, 6 grams sugar), 2 grams protein

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Jarred tomato sauces score points for convenience, but they have a reputation for being high in added sugar and salt. Not this one, though: "It has less sodium, less sugar, and less overall calories than other tomato sauce brands, making it a health-conscious option," Braddock notes.

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Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $2.77 for 24 ounces

7. GreenWise Organic Carrot Chips

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (8)

An ideal selection for picky eaters who will only consume their vegetables if they're presented in a cute shape.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 35 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 65 milligrams sodium, 8 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 4 grams sugar), 1 gram protein

They're plain and simple carrots, just made more fun for snacking. "These fresh carrots are a lifesaver in my home as my kids prefer the chip shape," Braddock says. But you can easily toss them into cooked dishes like stir-fries, too — no peeling or chopping required.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $2.97 for 16 ounces

8. Publix Unsweetened Applesauce

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (9)

Unlike homemade versions, store-bought apple sauce is very shelf-stable.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 50 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams sodium, 12 grams carbohydrates (1 gram fiber, 11 grams sugar), 0 grams protein

Unsweetened applesauce is an easy, wholesome snack for kids and adults alike, but it's also great for adding to baked goods or for bringing sweetness to yogurt or oatmeal. Braddock likes these cups because they're free of added sugar and offer up some potassium, too.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $1.87 for 6 cups

9. Publix Premium House Blend Ground Coffee

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (10)

Coffees like this tend to cost an arm and a leg — but never at Publix!

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 0 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams sodium, 0 grams carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 0 grams sugar), 0 grams protein

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This medium-roast blend is sweet and smooth and costs a fraction of what you'd pay at your favorite cafe. Enjoy a cuppa first thing or sip it for a natural energy boost before a workout.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $8.53 for 12 ounces

10. GreenWise Brown Rice Multi-Seed Crackers

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (11)

Sometimes a cracker with a ton of texture is the exact snack you're hankering after.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 130 calories, 2.5 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 280 milligrams sodium, 24 grams carbohydrates (1 gram fiber, 0 grams sugar), 2 grams protein

These crispy, seedy crackers are gluten-free, but they're a great choice for everyone. "They're full of whole grains, making them a nutritious and filling snack," says Braddock.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $3.31 for 3.5 ounces

11. GreenWise Peanut Butter Protein Granola

The secret ingredient in this fueling snack? Pea protein!

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 280 calories, 12 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat), 280 milligrams sodium, 36 grams carbohydrates (4 grams fiber, 11 grams sugar), 9 grams protein

Aside from packing a yummy peanut butter punch, this granola will keep you full for the long haul. "Pea protein is added to take the total protein to 9 grams for a 2/3-cup serving," Braddock says. That's more protein than you'd get from an egg, people.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $6.63 for 12 ounces

12. GreenWise Organic Pumpkin Seed & Maple Multigrain Squares

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (13)

When your sweet tooth is calling, these'll do the trick, while staving off hunger for hours.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 140 calories, 4.5 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat), 80 milligrams sodium, 2 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 6 grams sugar), 3 grams protein

Fact: Sweet snacks that are also good for you ​do​ exist, and these whole-grain squares are proof. "They're packed with healthy fats, potassium and protein to keep you full throughout the day," says Braddock.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $4.19 for 5

13. Publix Premium Stoneground Whole-Wheat Bread

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (14)

Whole wheat bread is always the nutritious pick, and this one's got even more health benefits than usual.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 60 calories, 1 gram fat (0 grams saturated fat), 115 milligrams sodium, 12 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 4 grams sugar), 4 grams protein

"Whole wheat bread provides great nutrients like iron, fiber and several B vitamins," Braddock explains. "It's an easy swap in your everyday life." This bread in particular wins points for its nutty flavor and the fact that it's free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $2.31 for 20 ounces

14. GreenWise Organic Instant Multigrain & Flaxseed Hot Cereal

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (15)

Packaged hot cereals tend to be overly sweet, but this one is made without any added sugars.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 160 calories, 3.5 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams sodium, 27 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 0 grams sugar), 5 grams protein

Unlike most hot cereals, this one is all whole grain goodness (Oats! Wheat! Rye! Barley!) and has zero added sugar. "Instant oats are a nutritious and filling option for breakfast," Braddock says. "This type also includes flaxseeds, which contains omega-3 fatty acids."

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $3.31 for 11.29 ounces

15. GreenWise Organic Quinoa and Kale

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (16)

When you want something healthy but can't summon the will to cook, this packaged quinoa has you covered.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 330 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 370 milligrams sodium, 46 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar), 10 grams protein

Keep a bag tucked in the freezer for an easy, healthy side dish that you can get on the table in minutes. "The kale adds loads of vitamin K, vitamin C, iron and calcium," Braddock says.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $4.41 for 10 ounces

16. GreenWise Apple Cinnamon Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (17)

It's always nice to have a healthy drink on hand other than water to give your taste buds a treat.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 30 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams sodium, 8 grams carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 8 grams sugar), 0 grams protein

The apple-cinnamon flavor of this low-sugar sipper tastes like fall in a bottle. Plus, apple cider vinegar is thought to potentially improve blood sugar control and digestion, Braddock notes. (And it's a source of probiotics!)

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $2.75 for 16 ounces

17. GreenWise Organic Strawberry Sparkling Water

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (18)

Love bubbles? You'll definitely want to give the carbonated concotion a try.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 0 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams sodium, 0 grams carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 0 grams sugar), 0 grams protein

In search of a flavorful alternative to soda that's actually good for you? Grab a pack of these. "This drink offers a slight burst of natural strawberry flavor along with the bubbles of the sparkling water," Braddock says. "Very hydrating, refreshing and sugar-free!"

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $4.43 for 12 cans

18. GreenWise Sea Salt & Cracked Black Pepper Seasoned Chicken Breast Strips

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (19)

What can't you do with these pre-cooked, pre-seasoned chicken strips?

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 80 calories, 2 grams fat (4.5 grams saturated fat), 490 milligrams sodium, 0 grams carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 0 grams sugar), 15 grams protein

Keep these pre-cooked (and perfectly seasoned) chicken breast strips on hand for fast salads or grain bowls. "They add a little bit of extra flavor and lean protein," says Braddock.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $6.09 for 9 ounces

19. GreenWise Organic Chicken Burrito

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (20)

For meals when cooking is not in the cards, this quick, heat-up burrito will fuel you right up.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 310 calories, 8 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 670 milligrams sodium, 51 grams carbohydrates (3 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar), 11 grams protein

Cozy up to this flavorful frozen burrito that's satisfying ​and​ good for you. "This burrito is great because of its organic chicken, brown rice and organic beans," Braddock says. That's a combo that'll keep you full for hours.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $3.69 for 6 ounces

20. Publix Animal Crackers

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (21)

Who can resist the absolutely adorable sight of animal crackers? This box offers a great lower-in-sugar variety.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 130 calories, 4 grams fat (1 gram saturated fat), 100 milligrams sodium, 22 grams carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 7 grams sugar), 2 grams protein

When it comes to animal crackers, these simple cookies lead the pack. They're relatively low in sugar, majorly versatile (eat 'em out of hand, crumble them over ice cream or even crush and use to make pie crust) and super affordable.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $1.97 for 12 ounces

21. GreenWise Antibiotic-Free Chicken Sausage With Kale

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (22)

Your family will swoon over these protein-packed links.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 110 calories, 5 grams fat (1.5 grams saturated fat), 730 milligrams sodium, 1 gram carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 1 gram sugar), 14 grams protein

"Chicken sausage provides a leaner protein and less saturated and trans fat than other types of sausage," Braddock says. Adding kale to the mix gives these links an earthy flavor plus an extra dose of nutrients like iron, calcium and vitamin K.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $7.18 for 16 ounces

22. Publix Three-Cheese Ravioli

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (23)

For picky eaters, cheese lovers and everyone in between, this pasta dish will satisfy all palates.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 320 calories, 10 grams fat (6 grams saturated fat), 400 milligrams sodium, 42 grams carbohydrates (3 grams fiber, 2 grams sugar), 14 grams protein

Ravioli is a crowd-pleasing vegetarian meal option that you can get on the table ​fast.​ And you can never go wrong with a three-cheese filling. Add a leafy green side salad, and you've got dinner.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $6.97 for 44 ounces

23. GreenWise Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (24)

This olive oil spray is not only conveient, but it'll keep you from over-pouring when you just need a touch of EVOO.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 0 calories, 0 grams fat (0 grams saturated fat), 0 milligrams sodium, 0 grams carbohydrates (0 grams fiber, 0 grams sugar), 0 grams protein

This olive-oil based spray helps keep baked goods from sticking, without the use of questionable ingredients or additives. "It has healthier fats than other cooking sprays," Braddock says.

Buy it​: Publix.com; ​Price​: $4.41 for 5 ounces

24. GreenWise Organic Vegetable Pizza

24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (25)

This za will alleviate junk food pangs while serving up a nice dose of veggies.

  • Nutrition per serving:​ 300 calories, 9 grams fat (4.5 grams saturated fat), 490 milligrams sodium, 38 grams carbohydrates (2 grams fiber, 3 grams sugar), 14 grams protein

"It's always good to go with a pizza loaded with veggies," says Braddock. This heat-and-serve option, ready in just 15 minutes, is loaded with roasted peppers, tomatoes, onions and mushrooms.

Buy it:Publix.com; ​Price​: $6.63 for 12 ounces

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24 Healthy and Affordable Grocery Staples You Can Only Buy at Publix | Livestrong.com (2024)

FAQs

What's healthy to eat at Publix? ›

7 Healthy Orders at Publix Deli
  • Chicken with feta, spinach, and mustard on whole wheat.
  • Chicken wings with cooked vegetables and coleslaw.
  • Meatball "sub" on a salad.
  • 12 oz. ...
  • Turkey with cheddar, cucumber, and mustard on flatbread.
  • Premade salads.
  • Chicken salad, tuna salad, or artichoke dip with carrots.
Feb 27, 2020

Can you use your Healthy Food card at Publix? ›

Can I Use My Humana Healthy Foods Card At Publix? The Humana healthy foods card is typically accepted at Publix. Use the Humana Healthy Benefits store finder to check for participating stores or pharmacies near you.

How to save money grocery shopping at Publix? ›

We offer weekly specials, buy-one-get-one free promotions, and accept Publix, manufacturer, and competitor coupons. For details about our acceptance guidelines, please visit the Coupon Policy page. Publix posts a list of competitors whose coupons we accept in each of our stores.

What 6 items is Publix limiting? ›

The new products include coconut flakes; dairy whipping cream; half & half creamers; frozen pie shells; frozen hashbrowns; and canola, vegetable, and corn oil.

Are Publix rotisserie chickens healthy? ›

Rotisserie chicken (named because it's cooked on a rotisserie, or rotating pole inside a hot oven) is cheap and pre-cooked, making it a popular choice among shoppers. While it's generally considered healthy, it also comes with significant drawbacks—including high sodium content and some questionable additives.

What groceries can I buy with my Healthy Benefits card? ›

Use the handy list below to help you shop for foods that qualify.
  • Fresh fruits & vegetables.
  • Canned fruits & vegetables.
  • Frozen produce & meals.
  • Fresh salad kits.
  • Dairy products.
  • Meat & seafood.

Can I buy soda with Healthy Benefits card? ›

Some items are not available for purchase, including non-food and pet items, alcohol, baby formula, candy, chips, coffee shop items, desserts, fresh baked goods, soda and tobacco. *Unused credits for the healthy food benefit will expire monthly.

What foods can I get with my OTC card? ›

Examples of approved food items are fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy, rice, pasta, beans, and much more.

What does Publix do with unsold food? ›

This program engages Publix associates in hunger alleviation efforts by having them gather perishable foods that are no longer salable and donate them to Feeding America member food banks and other nonprofit organizations.

What is the best day to go shopping at Publix? ›

Best Days To Shop at Publix: Wednesday or Thursday

The sales cycle at Publix resets on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Both of these days are great to shop to get the last of previous sales and take advantage of new sales as well.” Cid added, “The best day to shop is the morning of the first day of the new Publix ad.

What is Publix employee discount? ›

There is no discount at Publix for associates. The average profit margin for grocery stores is only roughly 2.2%. Publix does provide several of the best benefits in the Country, by an employer. No, but we do get monthly coupons to use in store which include during good months a 5 off 25 coupon.

What is the healthiest convenience food? ›

Food Group Examples
  • Canned tuna or salmon, tuna/salmon/chicken pouches (e.g., Starkist Creations)
  • Rotisserie chicken.
  • String cheese or Babybel cheese.
  • Frozen turkey burgers, frozen veggie burgers (e.g., Beyond meat)
  • Greek yogurt.
  • Cottage cheese.
  • Frozen cooked shrimp, or seasoned fish fillets.
  • Peanut butter.
Oct 21, 2021

How to make a healthy Publix sub? ›

Most Nutritious Option

Whether you're customizing a Publix sub or reaching for a pre-made sandwich, choose one with whole wheat bread, plenty of vegetables, and no high-calorie, high-fat extras like cheese and mayonnaise.

Are subs healthy for you? ›

UNHEALTHY CALORIES: Even though subs and sandwiches are made fresh in front of our eyes, they still contain many unhealthy calories which contribute to a bigger waist more than anything else. A typical sub contains no less than 600-800 calories and a sandwich contains no less than 500 calories.

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