When you are running down the grocery store aisle, the options can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to cut costs without sacrificing 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? Private label options don’t include the high costs of advertising that national brands build into the price.

Many people think that cheaper products are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that shoppers often can’t tell the difference store brands and name brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like sugar, the product is practically identical.

For over-the-counter medications, the active ingredients are monitored and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.

In additional areas like cleaners, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. Even if a product doesn’t meet your standards, the savings will compensate over time. Many stores even provide return policies on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.

The key is that you can start small. Swap out a few staples at first—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 click here grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.