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 prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without losing quality.

Private label products are manufactured by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Store brands don’t come with expensive marketing campaigns that name brands more info build into the price.

Many people think that cheaper products are not as good, but research studies have shown that customers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like sugar, the product is virtually the same.

In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are regulated and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.

In additional areas like cleaners, it may seem a bit risky to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner isn’t quite right, the savings can add up over time. Many retailers even offer money-back guarantees on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.

The important thing is that you can start small. Try switching a few staples at first—like baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to store brands, you’ll notice significant savings in your grocery bill without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.