When you’re strolling down the supermarket aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often cheaper but less familiar. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without sacrificing value.
Store brands are produced by third-party companies, but sold under the retailer’s name. Often, these products are very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t include the high costs of advertising that national brands build into their pricing.
Many people assume that store brands are lower quality, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers frequently can’t distinguish between generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like canned goods, the product is practically identical.
For over-the-counter medications, the active ingredients are regulated and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re getting the same thing at a fraction of the cost.
In additional areas like cleaners, you might feel a bit risky to try store brands, though you might be Cheaper grocery options surprised. In case a product isn’t quite right, the money saved can add up over time. Many retailers even provide return policies on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.
The key is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few items at first—like baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or basic groceries. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve cut from your budget. By being open to store brands, you’ll notice significant savings in your grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.