When you are strolling down the supermarket aisle, the options can be read more overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to save money without sacrificing value.

Store brands are produced by outside manufacturers, under the store’s brand. Often, these products are almost identical to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t come with expensive marketing campaigns that name brands build into their pricing.

Many people assume that cheaper products are lower quality, but research studies 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 flour, the product is practically identical.

In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are regulated and must meet the same standards, 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 paper goods, you might feel more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. In case a product doesn’t meet your standards, the savings will compensate over time. Many retailers even offer return policies on store-brand products, making it risk-free to try.

The important thing is that you can start small. Swap out a few staples initially—such as baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve cut from your budget. By being open to store brands, you’ll notice significant savings in your grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.