When you’re walking down the grocery store aisle, the options can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see well-known brands, with their vibrant packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often more affordable but less familiar. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to cut costs without losing quality.

Private label products are produced by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Private label options don’t include the high costs of advertising that name brands build into the price.

Many people think that store brands are lower quality, but research studies have shown that shoppers often can’t distinguish between generic brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like flour, the product is virtually the same.

For over-the-counter medications, the core ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a fraction of the cost.

In other categories like paper goods, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, but it’s often worth it. In case a product doesn’t meet your standards, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even provide return policies on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.

The important thing is that you can start small. Swap out a few items initially—like baking ingredients, household items, or Cheaper grocery options 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 feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.