As for the ‘sale’ thing, I was concerned about that but happy to report some of the ‘everyday’ prices for groceries (not on sale) were pretty good.
Got chicken breasts $1.88 lb, lots of jarred gherkin pickles for $3 a jar (BG brand), some cookies, various produce (bagged lettuce, baby carrots, etc).
Also, if you can do any of the Bud Rebates on various items in CA this is a good way to monetize some cheese or meats, etc.
My groceries added up to $46.xx, paid $1.xx oop.