How much food can 20 euros purchase in France?

Feast your eyes. I'm sure you could stretch your 20 even further (I didn't even look at beans or rice) but this was my first go at groceries in France.

I was simply grabbing what I wanted to eat for the week at the Monoprix down the street from my flat. As I approached the register, I went for my 50 euro bill. I mean, my basket was overflowing. Not only was I pleasantly surprised, I was kind of blown away, when I realized all I needed was my 20.

I stood there realizing that I had totally over done my estimated budget for groceries. like WAY over.

How do the prices in the United States actually compare? Am I just inexperienced at this whole grocery-thing or is this way more economical?

I've been told that our food is pretty spendy, especially the things that shouldn't be - like uh, health foods.

Even with the tax tacked on (1.67) my receipt was still under 20 euros and I purchased this:

two half-size wine bottles (or as I like to call them, "to-go" sized)

vinegar

4 pack of yogurt

salad (125 g)

small pasta sauces

4 tomato

2 zucchini

3 peaches

farfalle Pasta (500 g)

crème légère(3 pack) x 200 ml

coconut milk 200 m L

cheese (3 pack)

Instant Noodles

Smoked Trout

Some reasons why it might be cheaper could be because the portions aren't enormous. I noticed the vegetables were of normal sizes and colors like you would typically find in a garden. (They're all from France though so it makes sense!) Personally I don't think they'd have it any other way.

Another thing: I'm smaller and it's the hottest part of the year so I realize this much food isn't going to sustain everyone. Even I am eating less than I normally do.

Lastly: You'll notice there's no fancy cheeses or baguette in that list. I have yet to compare the little supermarket with the Sunday open-air markets and those with the artisan shops. So I'll get back to you on that.

Aside from how things were priced I was also amused by the fact that A. They had a little American section with peanut butter, Reece's, Pancake Mix, Maple Syrup, and Marshmallow spread (now you know why they think we're fat.) I don't care, I'm just happy I don't have to ship myself peanut butter anymore.

Also, one last thing you should know: the French bring their own bags shopping. Otherwise you have to pay for a plastic bag, like in Oregon :-) I On that note, Macron's awkward yet sweet "let's save the planet" speech is playing in my head. Goodnight!