When you’re walking down the supermarket aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. 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 more affordable but less familiar. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to save money without sacrificing value.
Store brands are manufactured by outside manufacturers, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are Budget-friendly shopping very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t include expensive marketing campaigns that national brands build into the price.
Many people think that store brands are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and popular brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like flour, the quality is virtually the same.
In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are monitored and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.
In other categories like cleaners, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. Even if a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved will compensate over time. Many stores even offer return policies on store-brand products, making it risk-free to try.
The key is that you can start small. Swap out a few staples initially—such as baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve saved. By being open to store brands, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.