When you are looking down the supermarket aisle, the options 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 store-brand items, which are often Grocery shopping tips more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to cut costs without losing quality.

Store brands are produced by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are almost identical to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t include expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into the price.

Many people assume that store brands are not as good, but research studies have shown that shoppers often can’t distinguish between generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like flour, the product is virtually the same.

For over-the-counter medications, the active ingredients are regulated and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re getting the same thing at a lower price.

In additional areas like paper goods, it may seem a bit risky to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a product doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved will compensate over time. Many stores even provide return policies on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.

The key is that you can start small. Try switching a few items initially—such as baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.