The short answer
Usually not, and often it is the same product from the same factory. The way to find out is to drop one tier at a time and only go back up on the things where you notice.
- Work down a tier at a time. Branded to own brand to value range, one category per shop.
- Keep a short list of things worth paying for. Most people find they have three or four, not thirty.
- Basics where the difference is usually nil: flour, sugar, tinned tomatoes, frozen peas, bicarbonate of soda, bleach, kitchen foil.
- Where it can matter: meat and fish quality, chocolate, coffee, tea bags, washing detergent, nappies, bin bags.
What will ruin it
Check the quantity when comparing, not the price. Own brand packs are frequently a different size, and the shelf label's price per 100g is the only honest comparison.
Why it works
Supermarket own label is generally made by the same manufacturers, often on the same lines, to a specification that varies mainly at the value tier. The branding is a substantial part of the price difference.
Tipking is general household information, not professional advice. Test anything on a hidden patch first. Full disclaimer.
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