When you are strolling down the supermarket aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their eye-catching packaging and heavy advertising. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing 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 come with the high costs of advertising that name brands build into the price.

Many people assume that store brands are not as good, but research studies have shown that customers Supermarket money-saving hacks often can’t distinguish between generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like flour, the product is practically identical.

For over-the-counter medications, 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 receiving a similar product at a fraction of the cost.

In other categories like paper goods, it may seem more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. In case a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even provide return policies on store-brand products, eliminating the risk to try.

The key is that you can start small. Try switching a few staples initially—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 feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.