Frequently Asked Questions
Are store brands really the same product as name brands?
Sometimes, yes. The practice is called co-packing, where a large manufacturer produces its own name-brand product and also uses its factory to produce the store-brand version for a retailer. Other times, the store brand is made by a company that specializes in private-label manufacturing. The only way to know is to compare the ingredient lists and, ultimately, the taste. As our test showed, for many staples like flour, sugar, or canned beans, the products are functionally identical for the home cook.
With digital coupons, do store brands still offer the best value?
It depends. A great coupon or sale can sometimes make a name brand cheaper than its generic counterpart. The key is to compare the final unit price. A name-brand cereal that’s $5.00 a box ($0.40/oz) might seem expensive next to the $3.00 store brand ($0.24/oz). But with a $1.50 off digital coupon, the name brand drops to $3.50 ($0.28/oz), making it much more competitive. The best strategy is to be flexible. Know your store-brand price, and if a coupon makes the name brand cheaper, take the deal.
What does USP mean on vitamins? Is it important?
USP stands for U.S. Pharmacopeia. It is an independent, non-profit organization that sets quality standards for medicines, food ingredients, and dietary supplements. A “USP Verified” mark on a supplement bottle means the manufacturer has voluntarily paid for a rigorous testing and auditing process. It verifies that the product contains what the label says it contains, in the correct amounts, without harmful contaminants. It is a very important quality seal in an under-regulated industry. You can learn more at the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP).
How do I avoid impulse buys at the grocery store?
The single best strategy is to shop with a list and stick to it. Plan your meals for the week before you go. This turns your shopping trip from a browsing session into a mission. Secondly, avoid shopping when you’re hungry, as this makes you more susceptible to impulse buys, especially for snacks and ready-to-eat foods. Finally, be wary of end caps and checkout aisle displays. These are prime real estate designed specifically to trigger impulse purchases of high-margin items.
Is buying in bulk a good idea for a one or two-person household?
Buying in bulk only saves money if you use the product before it expires or goes bad. For non-perishable pantry staples that you use regularly—like rice, pasta, canned goods, or flour—it can be a fantastic way to lower your unit cost. For perishable items like produce or dairy, or for items you only use occasionally, a large bulk package can lead to food waste, which is the opposite of frugal. Be honest about your consumption habits. A giant bag of spinach is no bargain if you end up throwing half of it away.
