How the '6 to 1' Grocery Shopping Trick is Revolutionizing TikTok

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If your grocery list includes six veggies, five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two sauces, and one fun item, then you’re likely a fan of Will Coleman. He is a chef, TV host, and social media influencer based in New York City.

Coleman became popular on TikTok when he shared his “6 to 1” technique to save time and money while grocery shopping. He believes this method can help you spend less time in the store and keep more cash in your wallet.

According to Coleman, following this approach can also reduce food waste by preventing you from purchasing unnecessary ingredients.

What is the 6 to 1 method?

Coleman originally posted about his shopping philosophy in March 2022.

@chefwillco My 6 to 1 grocery method makes shopping cheaper and easier! Let me know how you like this grocery shopping method. #6to1method

original sound - Chef Will Coleman

Coleman, a prolific recipe developer, shared that he used to spend a lot of money on groceries, entertaining with friends, and creating content. He mentioned that this method truly changed his life.

According to Coleman, this weekly technique not only makes shopping more efficient and affordable, but also allows you to add more variety, freshness, and direction to your menu. He added that it helps you stay focused on what you really need to buy, rather than being tempted by the flashy items placed on supermarket endcaps to encourage impulse purchases.

Here is your new mission: Next time you go grocery shopping, aim to pick up six different vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned), five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two sauces, and one little luxury. This simple guideline can help you add more variety to your pantry staples without feeling overwhelmed by the numerous options available. (Coleman has shared his experience using the 6 to 1 method at Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s, and Publix.) Remember, this doesn't apply to quick trips for forgotten items.

The 6 to 1 method was initially created by Coleman and his partner, but he believes that it can benefit everyone, including those cooking for themselves.

You can try out this process at different places like the farmers market, supermarket, or your favorite specialty grocer, depending on your budget and availability. Simply adjust the amount of ingredients based on your needs, whether you're cooking for one or a larger household, according to Coleman.

Now, let's talk about the advantages of using the 6 to 1 method.

Coleman made a fresh cheddar apple Cobb salad using his grocery hack.

Coleman made a fresh cheddar apple Cobb salad using his grocery hack.

Frances Largeman-Roth, a dietitian from Dobbs Ferry, New York, and a mother of three, tried the 6 to 1 method and found success. She is also the author of "Everyday Snack Tray: Easy Ideas and Recipes for Boards That Nourish for Moments Big and Small."

How your kitchen looks may also impact how you use it, experts said.

How your kitchen looks may also impact how you use it, experts said.

fotostorm/E+/Getty Images

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Your kitchen could be affecting your eating habits. According to Largeman-Roth, diversifying your diet with various types of produce, grains, proteins, and cooking oils can offer numerous benefits. Trying out different foods may help you consume a wider range of nutrients. Additionally, being open to changing your shopping habits can also help you save money.

The dietitian and mom mentioned that she liked how the 6 to 1 method provided structure while still allowing for flexibility. For example, choosing store-brand items instead of name brands or swapping expensive proteins like eggs for more budget-friendly options like lentils. She also appreciated the focus on consuming more fruits and vegetables.

According to Largeman-Roth, incorporating more fruits and vegetables into our diets is essential, so she agrees with the method's priorities. She also noted that you can create multiple meals from just four proteins. To add variety and prevent feelings of restriction or the temptation to order takeout, including starches, sauces, and enjoyable foods in the meal can help balance it out.

How to make the 6 to 1 method work for you

Coleman created his hack to get control of his grocery budget.

Coleman created his hack to get control of his grocery budget.

Eva Cruz

Meal planning is still necessary when shopping in this style. No matter what your budget, nutrition goals, or household size, simply going to the grocery store without a plan won't cut it. As Largeman-Roth put it, "you can't just roll up to the grocery store without a plan and think that 6 veggies and 4 proteins are going to get you through the week."

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According to a doctor, it's not just about the food you eat. The timing and way you eat also matter.

When planning your meals, consider pairing your chicken breasts with asparagus or deciding if you need tortillas for the ground turkey you recently purchased. Having even a basic plan is key to ensuring you leave the store or unpack your online grocery order with the right ingredients to make delicious meals.

Take a look at what you have in your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer. According to Coleman, choose the recipes that you are craving. If your main concern is budget rather than food waste or your mood, start by looking for items on sale. After that, you can find inspiration for your menu in cookbooks, blogs, or Pinterest.

Following these tips, Largeman-Roth came up with:

6 veggies: brussels sprouts, asparagus, butternut squash, celery and two different salad kits

5 fruits: apples, bananas, grapes, pomelos (off the beaten path for her) and strawberries

4 proteins: eggs, meatballs, sliders and shrimp

3 starches: garlic bread, pasta and tortillas

2 sauces: She omitted these from her list since she has so many on hand, but noted she loves salsa and sour cream.

1 fun item: brownie mix

If you enjoy cooking, Coleman suggests using the ingredients mentioned to create impromptu meals. You can mix them with items already in your pantry to make dishes like pasta, casseroles, and soup. You could also try making butternut squash and egg breakfast tacos with a fruit salad, shrimp and brussels sprout pasta with garlic olive oil sauce, sliders with a side salad, or berry-topped brownies for dessert.

If you're unsure about how to use the ingredients, Coleman has a solution. He recently launched a $10 e-book that provides three weeks' worth of grocery lists and recipes following his approach. Alternatively, you can get a free sample of one week's recipes.

The method works even if you are often cooking (this salmon quesadilla) for one.

The method works even if you are often cooking (this salmon quesadilla) for one.

Will Coleman believes that the 6-1 method is a great way to save brain power and encourage more cooking and eating at home. In the future, he hopes to create a game show where families from different parts of the world can put this method to the test.

Karla Walsh is a Des Moines, Iowa-based freelance lifestyle writer with more than 15 years of editorial experience. 

Editor's P/S:

The 6 to 1 method, developed by Chef Will Coleman, is a grocery shopping strategy that emphasizes variety, freshness, and affordability. By adhering to this approach, shoppers can save time and money while reducing food waste. The method encourages the purchase of six different vegetables, five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two sauces, and one fun item. This structured approach helps individuals stay focused on essential ingredients and avoid impulsive purchases.

The 6 to 1 method has been praised by dietitians for its potential to promote a balanced and nutritious diet. By diversifying the types of produce, grains, proteins, and cooking oils consumed, individuals can benefit from a wider range of nutrients. Additionally, the method promotes the consumption of more fruits and vegetables, which is crucial for overall health and well-being. By providing a structured framework for grocery shopping, the 6 to 1 method empowers individuals to make healthier and more economical choices.