7. Frozen Fruits and Vegetables
Frozen fruits and vegetables are a fantastic way to get nutrients, and they last much longer than fresh. When it comes to plain, unadorned frozen produce (like frozen peas, corn, broccoli florets, or mixed berries), the store brand is usually just as good as the name brand.
Why generic is a smart buy: The fruits and vegetables are typically picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen, preserving their nutritional value. The process is fairly standard. You’re essentially getting the same product – a bag of frozen green beans is a bag of frozen green beans. The name brands often charge more for the same quality of produce simply because of their marketing and brand recognition. This is an easy switch for smart buying that supports healthy eating on a budget.
What to look for: Ensure the package contains only the fruit or vegetable, without added sauces, salt, or sugar (unless that’s what you specifically want). Check that the contents are loose and not frozen into a solid block, which can indicate thawing and refreezing.
Making the switch from name brand to generic for these types of items is a simple yet powerful strategy to save money without feeling like you’re making a big sacrifice. It’s all about being a discerning shopper and recognizing where your money is best spent. Give generic brands a try in these categories – you might be pleasantly surprised by the quality and very pleased with the extra money in your pocket. Every dollar saved is a dollar you can put towards something more meaningful to you!
One Response
I have to disagree with the idea that all flour is created equal. Some generic lour isn’t even good enough to make play dough. Sticking with name brand flour such as Pillsbury or Gold Medal is best for baking. If you want to splurge then you can use King Arthur. If you need specialty flours then Bob’s Red Mill.