When you’re looking down the supermarket aisle, the choices 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 less familiar. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Private label products are produced by outside manufacturers, under the store’s brand. Often, these products are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Store brands don’t include the high costs of advertising that national brands build into the price.

Many people assume that cheaper products are not as good, but research studies have shown that shoppers often can’t tell the difference store brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to basic pantry staples like flour, the product is practically identical.

In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or store-brand versions, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.

In additional areas like toiletries, it may seem a bit risky to try store brands, but it’s often more info worth it. In case a product isn’t quite right, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even provide money-back guarantees on store-brand products, eliminating the risk to try.

The key is that you can start small. Try switching a few items initially—like baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or snacks. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to store brands, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.