Sims 1 vs Sims 2 vs Sims 3 vs Sims 4 - Groceries
The Sims
In The Sims 1, there isn't technically an option to buy groceries, because when you go to the fridge to cook something you'll be automatically charged depending on the meal. however, with The Sims: Unleashed, The pantry was introduced. It allows Sims to store food and prepare meals without being charged. With Sims: Unleashed, gardening was also added. Now there are markets where you can buy or sell vegetables. You can buy green beans, tomatoes, carrots and lettuce. After you buy them, the vegetables will be added in your inventory. When you bring them home you can just stock the pantry and cook.
The Sims 2
In The Sims 2, you must buy groceries to fill up the fridge. There are two options available for buying groceries. One of them is visiting a Grocery Store. After you fill up the cart, the groceries will be automatically put in a shopping basket. The cashier will type the sum needed and the cash register will open and your sim will pay. You can also order groceries to be delivered to your home. The amount of food you want to buy is determined the same way. The delivery guy will come driving a truck. He take the groceries out of the back of the truck.
The Sims 3
If an ingredient that's needed to cook a meal is missing from both the refrigerator and the Sim's inventory, your Sim will be automatically charged at a higher cost and of lower quality than if they purchased it from the grocery store. the ingredients from the grocery are of nice quality, except for the fish that has normal quality.
Unlike the Sims 2, the Grocery is a rabbit hole in The Sims 3. There is a list of grocery items you can buy.
The Sims 4
In The Sims 4, Sims are charged whenever they cook a new meal. If you have the necessary ingredients for cooking a certain meal, you won't be charged, or you may be charged depending on what ingredient is available.
In the Sims 4, there are several options for buying groceries. With Cottage Living, you can now buy groceries directly from a grocery stand. There is also Crumplebottom's Garden Shop where you can buy many things including ingredients. With Cottage Living ordering groceries was also introduced. You can order directly from the fridge or from your phone. A delivery person will come on foot carrying your groceries in a bag. They will come in and place the groceries on a surface.