GOBankingRates works with many financial advertisers to showcase their products and services to our audiences.

These brands compensate us to advertise their products in ads across our site.

This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site.

Grocery shopping stock photo

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information.

you could read more about oureditorial guidelinesand our products and servicesreview methodology.

Unfortunately, not all generic food brands are created equal.

facebook sharing button

For instance, the Kirkland brand is one of the most beloved and highly-rated store brands across the country.

Unfortunately, it is exclusively sold at Costco since its their private label.

Therefore, if you do not have a Costco membership, you wont be able to snag Kirkland products.

twitter sharing button

Here are the three off-brand products he saidwerent worth the savings.

The Great Value soy sauce from Walmart just doesnt taste right, said Gray.

Its just not worth saving that dollar or two to get the off-brand soy sauce, warned Gray.

linkedin sharing button

The Kikkoman tastes so much better, so its worth spending a little extra.

Golden Flake Chips

Another off-brand product Gray said to stay away from is the Golden Flake brand.

As expected, they just didnt measure up.

email sharing button

They didnt have the same crunch or flavor as Doritos.

The taste simply is not the same.

What To Look for in Generic Brands

Its important to remember thatnot all generic brandsare bad.

In many cases, you might save a bundle by switching to a name-brand alternative.

However, some generic brands just wont measure up.

These store brands or private labels are often offered for a discount since they dont pay foradvertising and marketing.

Checking the ingredients is a good way to tell whether you are getting a bargain or not.

In some cases, the savings may be related to areduced size or amount.

If these two things check out, then it is definitely worth trying the lower-priced item.

More From GOBankingRates

Share This Article:

The Latest inSaving Money