Let’s be honest, the vast majority of us are looking to save a buck when it comes to groceries. Buying store brand, or knockoff, products is an easy way to be frugal. I vaguely remember learning in a marketing class that I took in high school that most store brand versions are manufactured alongside their name brand counterparts. Cheaper packaging and the lack of branding make the item more affordable, but oftentimes, the quality is fairly similar. I have found this to be true for many items I purchase, but I also find that sometimes I get what I pay for, and the big name is better.
I almost always do my weekly shopping at Market Basket. Over the years, I have tried many of their store brand offerings, some of which give the originals a run for their money. Here are seven of my favorite store brand products:
Microwave popcorn- I typically purchase either the 94% fat free variety or the kettle corn. To my family, both taste the same as any other brand; and, for $1.19, you can’t go wrong.
Cereal (Honey Bunches of Oats knockoff)- Super delicious, and I was happy to see that they don’t scrimp on the “bunches” in the cheaper option. Actually, all of the MB cereals we have tried are pretty good, specifically Tastee-O’s and Magic Stars.
Paper plates- When it comes to paper plates, I never like the thin, flimsy white ones. I always buy the ones with a little more substance to them so I don’t have to double or triple up. I find that the Market Basket brand is just as durable as the Dixie variety, despite being more inexpensive.
Drink mix- While 4c light half and half is hands down my favorite iced tea, when compared to Crystal Light, the Market Basket varieties hold up quite well. I also buy the lemonade, fruit punch, and strawberry kiwi flavors, which all taste just like the name brand.
Light Heavenly Hash ice cream- So good, full of almonds, and far cheaper than any other brand. Heavenly Hash may be a bit of an old lady flavor, but I love it.
Cheese curls- My favorite cheese puff type snack has always been the cheese balls that come in the large plastic bucket. These cheese curls taste exactly like the cheese balls, but in curl form. I actually like them better than Jax, Cheetos, and all of the other varieties.
Dry dusting cloths- Cleaning products are an area where I almost always prefer the brand name, but the Market Basket dry dusting cloths that attach to the Swiffer work just the same.
However...
...As much as I love to save where I can, there are some knock-offs that just can’t top the original. Five examples:
Q-Tips- Any store brand cotton swabs I have ever tried just do not stack up. If I’m applying make up, it’s less of an issue. But, when it comes to cleaning my ears, I’d rather spend the extra money.
Rice Pilaf- Rice pilaf is one of my staple side dishes for weeknight meals. The MB option is not terrible, but I do notice a difference. I will sometimes buy the store brand if I’m strapped for cash or am planning on mixing the rice into a sauce/burrito. But, on its own, there’s no topping Near East.
Diapers- Considering how expensive diapers can be, the Market Basket brand are not all that much cheaper than Pampers or Huggies, and, even though I technically can get a few more diapers for my dollar, I have to change them constantly to avoid a leak. Not worth it in my book, especially when MB has such good prices on the brand name ones ($7.99 pack). Now, this is not to say that all store brand diapers are lackluster. While BJs diapers are even worse than MB, the Target brand is pretty comparable to Huggies.
Disposable dusters- While I always buy the store brand dusting cloths, when it comes to disposable dusters, I notice a difference. They are less durable, attract less dust, and tend to slide off of the plastic handle more easily.
Dry scalp shampoo- I have very dry, sensitive skin, and my scalp is no exception. Especially in the winter, I tend to end up with dry, flaky patches of skin. The Market Basket equivalent of Head and Shoulders dry scalp care shampoo just doesn’t cut it. Aside from not seeming to have much effect on my trouble spots, it left my hair more dry than the more expensive version.
Looking back at this list, I’m realizing I didn’t include many healthy options. I’m also noticing that I have tried many more products that were not included. Still, it’s a start, and as I record my thoughts on other items that I’ve tried, I’ll keep the posts coming.
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