How to Buy Generic Groceries

Knowing how to buy generic groceries can save you hundreds of dollars on food bills throughout the year. Many shoppers, however, are nervous about buying generic or no-name products because they aren’t sure about the quality or taste, but careful shopping can include these cheap groceries without any noticeable menu problems.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Menu plan
• Grocery list
• Grocery store

1. Plan a weekly or monthly menu and carefully list all necessary ingredients including meats, produce, baking items, spices, dairy products and other foods needed to cook the planned meals. Also include already prepared foods such as cereal, snacks and treats.

2. Create a grocery list of all necessary items, marking carefully any items that must be specific brands because of recipe requirements. Also take note of food allergies, the shelf life of different products and any ingredients that are already stocked in the kitchen cupboards.

3. Visit the grocery store and shop with an eye for generic groceries. These are usually stocked near similar name brand products or they may be placed on lower shelves or in bulk displays.

4. Compare ingredient labels on generic groceries to the labels of familiar name brand products. Most generic products will not have a significant difference in the major ingredients, though the exact proportions and the way the food is prepared and packaged will vary.

5. Choose several generic groceries to substitute for regular name brand products. Note the price differences, which may range from just a few cents to several dollars per package.

6. Purchase the groceries and prepare to make delicious meals for fewer dollars.

Tips & Warnings

• If taste is a consideration, choose generic groceries that serve as ingredients for more complex recipes. Taste differences are more obvious if a product does not require much preparation before serving, whereas basic items such as sugar, flour or pasta may not have any noticeable differences.
• Experiment by choosing a few generic groceries each week or month. Some shoppers find they prefer the taste of generic items or cannot notice a difference except in the total bill.
• Generic groceries may use more artificial flavorings, colors and preservatives than their name brand counterparts, and they may have higher calorie totals. Compare labels carefully to choose the best product for your budget and your dietary needs.
• Not all generic products are the same. Store brands will vary depending on where they are purchased and the generic choices you don’t like at one market may be tasty options at another.
• Generic groceries may not be cheaper than name brand products if coupons are available. Investigate weekly sales fliers and coupon inserts for even better deals on popular products.