Grocery shopping is a key aspect of daily life in Panama, whether you’re in the modern supermarkets of Panama City or the traditional local stalls in smaller towns. Understanding the ins and outs of grocery shopping here goes beyond just buying essentials, it’s about exploring the nation’s culinary identity and the wide range of ingredients that shape its cuisine. This guide covers essential information such as store opening hours, food safety, and even recommended attire for shopping trips. Keep reading to gain valuable insights into Panama’s food culture and the unique dynamics of grocery shopping in the country.
Panama’s Four Major Supermarkets
Panama has four major supermarket chains: Riba Smith, El Rey, Super 99, and Pricesmart. While there are slight differences between them, each offers everything you need, including pharmacies, delis, and prepared foods, depending on the location. These stores have gradually increased their selection of international products. Residents often discuss which of these four is the best, but the choice usually comes down to convenience.
Riba Smith
Riba Smith is widely recognized as Panama’s premier grocery store, attracting both expatriates and locals. The chain stands out for its extensive selection of international brands, some of which are exclusive to its stores. In addition to groceries, Riba Smith offers a fully-equipped pharmacy, making it a comprehensive destination for essential needs. The chain has a strong presence in Panama City, with locations in Bella Vista, Transistmica, Multi Plaza, and Costa del Este, providing convenient access for a broad customer base. Riba Smith operates from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, offering shoppers the flexibility to visit at their convenience.
El Rey
El Rey is known for its affordability and extensive product range, catering to various consumer needs. Shoppers can find a comprehensive selection of everyday essentials similar to those in a typical American grocery store. El Rey enhances the shopping experience by offering a rewards card that allows customers to accumulate benefits, providing access to exclusive discounts and promotions. The grocery store has strategically placed branches across Panama, including locations in España, Dorado, Centennial, Costa del Este, and Brisas del Golf. These outlets generally operate from 6:30 am to 10:30 pm, offering customers ample time to shop.
Super 99
Super 99 is a long-standing grocery store in Panama, offering fresh, packaged, and frozen foods, along with a variety of kitchen utensils, cosmetics, and cleaning products. With numerous branches throughout the country, including locations in Paitilla, El Faro, Los Pueblos, San Miguelito, and Albrook Mall, Super 99 is a convenient shopping destination for a wide range of products. Many of its branches are strategically located near bus stops, making it easily accessible for those who rely on public transportation. Super 99 typically operates from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm, accommodating a broad spectrum of customers.
PriceSmart
PriceSmart stands out as a retail destination with its membership-based warehouse club model. It offers an exclusive grocery shopping experience with a diverse range of products, from groceries to electronics and household items. PriceSmart operates in various locations across Panama, including San Miguelito, David, La Chorrera, and Panama City. The stores are generally open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Exploring Panama’s Specialty Markets
If you’re seeking unique grocery shopping experiences beyond the big chains, there are several smaller-scale options in Panama. One recommended store is Super Gourmet, especially the location in Casco Viejo, which offers prepared foods, imported beers, and baked goods, including chocolate-filled croissants that are worth the trip.
Super Gourmet also has a smaller store in Bocas del Toro. Another notable option is Grand Deli Gourmet, with two locations on Calle 50 and Samuel Lewis. While the Casco Viejo store stands out, those in San Francisco or Obarrio might find Grand Deli Gourmet convenient. Both locations offer premium meats, cheeses, and a quality wine selection. The Calle 50 location also features a salad bar priced at $8.50 per pound, offering a wide selection that makes for an excellent lunch when paired with one of their soups.
What to Expect: Typical Grocery Prices in Panama
Panama City provides a variety of grocery items at affordable prices, making it appealing for budget-conscious shoppers. Below is an overview of typical grocery prices in Panama, offering insights into the affordability of essential items.
|
Grocery Items |
Price |
|
Rice (1kg) |
$2.19 |
| Eggs (1dozen) |
$1.99 |
|
Beef (1kg) |
$8.41 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) |
$7.19 |
|
Fish (1kg) |
$3.9 – $12 |
| Apples (1kg) |
$3.31 |
|
Oranges (1kg) |
$2.76 |
| Potato (1kg) |
$2.06 |
|
Onion (1kg) |
$2.19 |
| 170-gram can of Tuna loins in water |
$1.55 |
|
Balsamic Vinegar (1L) |
$10.49 |
| Worcestershire sauce (1L) |
$2.16 |
|
Milk (1L) |
$1.70 |
Safety Guidelines in Grocery Shopping
Ensuring safe grocery shopping is crucial for your well-being and those around you. Follow these guidelines to handle fresh produce carefully and maintain social distancing, ensuring a secure and responsible shopping experience.
- Prioritize cleanliness: When grocery shopping, prioritize cleanliness by choosing reputable businesses that follow strict food safety regulations. Assess the store’s cleanliness and hygiene— it should look and smell clean to meet food safety standards. Use hand sanitizer at the store’s entrance and sanitize both your hands and the shopping cart handle to reduce contamination risk.
- Organize your grocery shopping: Begin by collecting non-perishable items like canned goods, dry goods, and pantry staples, which can remain in your cart longer. Afterward, select refrigerated and frozen items such as dairy products, meats, and frozen foods. Make the deli counter your last stop. Place deli meats and cold cuts near your other cold items in the cart. For fresh fruits and vegetables, place them on top to prevent them from being squished or damaged.
- Choosing fresh produce: At a farmer’s market, arrive early to ensure the freshest produce. Choose loose produce over packaged, and avoid items showing mold, significant bruises, or cuts. Purchase only the number of fruits and vegetables you’ll consume within a week. When buying juices, prefer pasteurized ones stored in the refrigerated section if they’re not freshly squeezed.
- Check food packages carefully: when grocery shopping inspect food packages for holes, tears, or openings. Ensure frozen items are solid with no signs of thawing, and refrigerated items feel cold. Check safety seals on jars and containers, a loose or damaged lid can indicate a compromised seal. Avoid deeply dented or bulging cans, as they may pose a botulism risk, and sharp dents can compromise the can’s seal, allowing bacteria to enter.
- Choose fish and seafood wisely: Buy fish from trustworthy sources like reputable grocery stores and seafood markets. When selecting fresh fish, carefully examine it for quality. For packaged seafood, ensure it is well-packed in ice. Unwrapped cooked seafood, such as shrimp, crab, or smoked fish, should be displayed separately from raw fish.
- Inspect dairy and milk products: Choose dairy items that feel cold to the touch to ensure proper refrigeration. Inspect eggs for cleanliness, cracks, or breaks before placing them in your cart. To minimize the time dairy products spend outside refrigeration, purchase them near the end of your shopping trip.
- Examine meats and poultry closely: Check that the packaging of meats and poultry is tightly sealed and feels very cold to the touch, indicating proper refrigeration. Opt for chicken that appears pink and avoid grayish ones, as this may indicate spoilage. Look for the Safe Food Handling label on bacon and fresh sausage, which confirms proper processing. Shop for meats and poultry after selecting non-perishable items.
- Keep certain foods separate: Place raw meat, poultry, and seafood in plastic bags before putting them in your cart to prevent juices from leaking onto other items. At checkout, ensure these raw items are bagged separately from ready-to-eat foods.
- At home: If you’ll be away for more than 30 minutes after grocery shopping, use a cooler with chill packs for perishable items. Once home, promptly refrigerate or freeze perishable foods. During hot weather, avoid storing perishable groceries in the trunk, instead, place them inside the air-conditioned cabin to maintain food quality and safety.
Practical Tips for Navigating Panama’s Local Markets
Best Time to Visit
To avoid crowds, shop early at 8 a.m. or late at 8 p.m. on any day. These off-peak hours allow for quicker navigation and shorter checkout times. Grocery stores are busiest at midday on weekends and between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays when most people finish work. Avoiding these peak times can make your grocery shopping more efficient. For an even quieter experience, consider shopping on Wednesdays, as mid-week tends to have fewer shoppers. For the freshest bakery, deli, and produce items, visit right when the store opens or shortly before closing when these sections are often restocked.
How Should You Dress for Grocery Shopping?
When you go grocery shopping, wear clothing that allows for easy movement, such as jeans or leggings with a comfortable t-shirt or blouse. Choose comfortable footwear like sneakers or supportive flats to help you move through the store efficiently and safely. Avoid low-cut tops or shorts that may not be suitable for the shopping environment, opt for modest, practical attire. Bring a reusable tote or backpack to carry your groceries home conveniently and sustainably.
Watch Over Your Valuables
In busy grocery stores, it’s essential to stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings. To prevent incidents, use a secure cross-body bag or keep valuables in a front pocket. These simple precautions help protect your items, allowing you to focus on your grocery shopping experience without safety concerns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as you navigate grocery shopping in Panama, have you considered how much you could save by exploring local markets alongside the major supermarkets? Whether you’re looking to stick to a budget or seeking fresh, unique ingredients, understanding the landscape of grocery shopping in Panama is crucial.
As a local saying goes, “El que madruga, Dios lo ayuda,” which means “The early bird gets the worm.” This not only applies to life in general but also to grocerys shopping in Panama’s bustling markets. Arriving early gives you access to the freshest produce and best deals, ensuring a rewarding and cost-effective shopping experience.
When planning your grocery shopping routine in Panama, remember to weigh the benefits of shopping at major supermarkets like Super 99, El Rey, Riba Smith, and PriceSmart, against the unique offerings of specialty markets and local vendors. Each has its strengths, and by strategically using all available resources, you can maximize both your savings and the quality of your purchases.
