When you’re walking down the supermarket aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to cut costs without losing quality.
Private label products are manufactured by outside manufacturers, but sold under the retailer’s name. Often, these products are almost identical to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t include expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into their pricing.
Many people think that store brands are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers often can’t tell the difference generic brands and popular brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like canned goods, the product is virtually the same.
For over-the-counter medications, the core ingredients are regulated and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.
In other categories like cleaners, it may seem more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. Even if a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the savings can add up over time. Many retailers even offer return policies on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.
The key is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Try switching a few items at first—like baking ingredients, household items, or basic groceries. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve more info cut from your budget. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.