Since 2022, farmers in the U.S. have been fighting against a deadly strain of H5N1 avian influenza—commonly known as bird flu. Millions of poultry have been affected over the past two years, and now outbreaks of bird flu have extended to dairy cattle in several states as well.

Unlike previous bouts with bird flu, this one doesn’t seem to have an end in sight. It’s continuing to spread, which means a continued shortage and rising prices: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) predicts that egg prices will increase by more than 20% this year.

Why are eggs so expensive right now?

Egg prices have been fluctuating and trending upward throughout the country for months. In December 2024, shoppers paid an average of $4.15 for a dozen eggs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. That was about 50 cents higher than November 2024, and nearly $1.70 higher compared to the previous December.

The continued global outbreak of bird flu is one of the main reasons egg prices are higher. As the egg supply shrinks, prices go up. But there are other related factors, too:

• Inflation: Farmers have to buy things like feed, fertilizer and fuel to run their farms. Because the cost of running a farm has skyrocketed, farmers are charging more for their commodities, according to the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Delaware. Then, there are supply chain issues and labor shortages to factor in.
• Panic shopping: Eggs are just one of several foods you might not find in your grocery store right now. Higher prices and and unreliable supplies can cause panic, leading shoppers to frantically try to stock up. Instead of picking up one carton with a dozen eggs, some are buying enough to open a small bakery. With eggs already in shorter supply, this type of overbuying only exacerbates the problem.

How long will the high prices last?

The price of eggs will likely keep rising as long as H5N1 continues to sweep throughout the country and decimate flocks. Poultry farmers are working to repopulate flocks and rebuild egg production levels, but that goal is difficult to achieve while bird flu remains out of control.

As noted above, the USDA warns that egg prices might go up by 20.3% in 2025. So, until the egg supply rebounds and prices (hopefully) begin to recover as well, you may want to become familiar with these egg substitutions you can use when baking to help stretch your grocery budget as far as possible.

The post This Is Why Eggs Are So Expensive Right Now appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The new McDonald’s McValue menu is a great example of this type of marketing—and many budget-conscious fans of the Golden Arches love the change.

What is the best deal?

Arguably, the best deal on the new McValue menu is the $5 Meal Deal. This meal was so popular in 2024 that McDonald’s extended its run through next summer.

The $5 Meal Deal comes with four menu items:

• Your choice of a McChicken or McDouble sandwich
• 4-piece Chicken McNuggets
• Small fries
• Small soft drink

That’s four things for only $5! Hard to beat that offer.

What else is on the McValue menu?

Yes, the $5 Meal Deal is the best deal, but there are several honorable mentions on the McValue menu. I like the “Buy One, Add One for $1” deal. You buy one full-priced menu item from the McValue menu and add one more item for $1. This deal is good during breakfast service and for the rest of the day.

Breakfast:

• Sausage biscuit
• Sausage McMuffin
• Sausage burrito
• Hash brown

Lunch or Dinner:

• McChicken
• Double cheeseburger
• 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets
• Small fries

McDonald’s also has plenty of other deals if you use the McDonald’s app. Look out for a free McCrispy Chicken sandwich for new app users and 10-piece Chicken McNuggets for $1.

If you’re looking for other ways to save, check out the McDonald’s secret menu. Instead of a Big Mac, order a McDouble with special sauce (that’s the Big Mac Sauce), extra lettuce and no ketchup. You’ll save about $1.50 by doing that, depending on your location.

How long will it be available?

The new McValue menu launched on January 7, 2025. McDonald’s promises that the $5 Meal Deal will be available at least through the summer of 2025.

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This virus has a high death rate among poultry. The same isn’t true with dairy cows. The virus makes cows sick, but it doesn’t kill them. In fact, most treated cattle recover, and the mortality rate from the virus has been 2% or less. Still, when dairy cattle contract bird flu, it can trigger a variety of health problems, including reduced appetite, lower milk production and abnormal milk appearance. These issues have caused milk production problems at dairy farms throughout the country. The higher mortality rates among poultry, along with other challenges, have triggered egg shortages and price increases as well.

Milk, Butter and Other Dairy

Regulators don’t allow milk from any H5N1-infected dairy cattle to enter our food supply. Instead, dairy farmers must destroy or divert any milk from infected animals. These safety measures protect consumers but can also lead to shortages and higher prices for shoppers during outbreaks.

Milk and dairy products also undergo a pasteurization process before they ever wind up on your local grocery store shelf. As a result, the USDA, FDA and CDC state they don’t have concerns about the safety of the U.S. commercial milk supply.

Raw milk, on the other hand, doesn’t require pasteurization (the process of removing bacteria and germs with high heat). One California-based raw milk dairy farm already issued a voluntary recall in December due to the detection of bird flu in a batch of its product, CBS News reported. And while proponents promote the benefits of raw milk, health officials warn about the bacteria concerns of consuming this product—especially during the current bird flu outbreak.

Beef

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) says no in-store ground beef samples have tested positive for the H5N1 virus. The agency conducted tests at stores in states where dairy cattle herds have tested positive for the bird flu. So, the USDA feels confident that the U.S. beef supply is safe at this time. Beef shortages, on the other hand, continue to be an issue for shoppers.

It’s worth mentioning that cooking beef to a temperature as low as 120°F can substantially inactivate the virus, according to the USDA. (Cooking to 160° is the USDA’s recommended temperature for ground beef.)

Eggs and Poultry

It’s no surprise that the continuing bird flu outbreak is impacting the prices and availability of eggs and poultry products. However, despite the large number of infected poultry in the U.S., the decline in egg production may be less severe than many consumers expect. According to USDA projections, the country will only experience a 1% decline in egg production in 2024.

It’s safe to conclude that intermittent egg shortages and rumors have pushed shoppers into panic-buying mode. And when thousands of shoppers buy double or triple their normal egg and poultry supply at a time, real shortages and price increases tend to follow.

What can you do as a shopper?

Despite reassurances of food safety from the USDA, CDC and FDA, American households are left with another concern. Intermittent food shortages, recalls and the destruction of milk supplies from an ongoing outbreak (not to mention panic buying among many shoppers) have combined to cause higher prices on a wide range of essential foods. Thanks to the bird flu, the cost of milk, butter, beef, eggs and poultry items has been trending upward for some time.

As a shopper, you unfortunately have little control over many of the factors that cause sporadic food shortages or trigger price fluctuations. But you can take steps to save money on your grocery bill where possible.

If you find a good sale on butter, beef or poultry, consider buying a little extra and freezing some for later. Also, take the time to research local sales or find the cheapest place to buy groceries in your area. These steps may help you stretch your overall food budget further so you can offset the higher prices on grocery items you can’t control.

The post How the Bird Flu Outbreak Is Affecting the Price of Milk, Eggs and Beef appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The price of olive oil nearly doubled between October 2023 and October 2024, according to the Federal Reserve.

Why did olive oil get so expensive?

Though inflation does play a role in rising olive oil prices, it’s not the primary issue at the moment. Instead, extreme weather and drought conditions—especially throughout southern Europe—have had a significant impact on olive harvests.

These weather-related challenges have resulted in an olive oil shortage. Just like the recent egg shortage in the U.S., food insecurity worries have caused olive oil panic buying in parts of Europe. CNBC reports that there was even a crime surge last year at supermarkets in Spain, where olive oil is a major staple.

Is there a way to buy cheap good olive oil?

Locating affordable real extra virgin olive oil without sacrificing flavor can be a challenge. You may be able to find a better deal on olive oil (per ounce) if you buy in bulk at warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club.

Keep in mind that your grocery store sells two types of products: real olive oil and oil blends. The best olive oils (aka quality extra virgin olive oil) typically cost much more than olive oil blends. For example, Partanna Extra Virgin Olive Oil costs $27.99 for a 34-ounce tin ($0.82 per ounce) at the time of writing. By comparison, an Iberia Premium Blend, Sunflower Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil costs $8.99 for a 68-ounce bottle ($0.13 per ounce).

Remember to choose the highest quality olive oil for dips or salad dressings. Use a blend or a lower-quality oil to saute vegetables or in marinade recipes if you’re looking for a way to save money.

No matter which olive oil you choose, store the oil properly so it lasts. Otherwise, you could find yourself needing to throw out the remainder of an expensive bottle (or can) of olive oil because it’s rancid. Then, your olive oil purchase could be even more expensive due to the need for a premature replacement.

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Consumers may feel the egg shortage and price fluctuations throughout the United States—especially at retailers like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods, which are reportedly making an effort to transition to a cage-free egg supply. Meanwhile, some states may experience more significant food shortages in the near future as they move to implement or enforce state laws with cage-free egg production requirements. In Arizona, Colorado and Michigan, for example, shoppers may have a harder time finding eggs on grocery store shelves as these states move to enforce new cage-free egg regulations that go into effect in January 2025.

What is causing the egg shortage right now?

Several different causes are contributing to the egg shortage and price fluctuations. Below are a few of the reasons you might see an egg shortage or higher egg prices the next time you visit your grocery store.

• Bird flu: The Centers for Disease Control report that the current public health risk from bird flu in the United States is low. But there have been sporadic outbreaks among poultry flocks throughout the country, along with ongoing multi-state outbreaks of avian flu among dairy cattle.
• Increased holiday demand: Eggs experience increased demand at the grocery store during the holidays. Butter is another food item that grocers have a hard time keeping on the shelves due to global milk shortages—and the price of butter is climbing this holiday season as a result.
• Trader Joe’s (and others) changing to cage-free eggs: Certain supermarket chains, like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods, have made recent efforts to carry cage-free eggs. According to the USDA, a cage-free designation means that the hens that laid the eggs must be free to roam (both vertically and horizontally) in indoor houses. Because fewer egg suppliers produce cage-free eggs, the available supply for grocers to purchase is limited.
• Rumors and panic: The USDA projects that the U.S. will experience only a 1% decline in egg production in 2024 compared to the previous year. Intermittent egg shortages and rumors have triggered panic buying among consumers in many cases. Instead of shoppers buying the normal dozen eggs on their weekly grocery list, some households purchase two, three, or four dozen eggs at a time. This overbuying behavior only makes the problem worse.

How long will the shortage last?

Egg prices may continue to climb from late 2024 into early 2025, according to USDA projections. If the avian flu continues its unpredictable path, the egg shortage may continue in intermittent waves throughout the country—even after the holidays. Bird flu often continues to spread throughout the spring due to the migration habits of wild birds.

According to USDA data, a large number of chick hatches are scheduled to take place in early 2025. Once these occur, egg production numbers could start to rebound.

In the meantime, shoppers may want to consider egg substitutions when baking. And, of course, it’s helpful to know the cheapest places to buy groceries right now to stretch your budget as far as possible.

The post Shoppers Are Seeing an Egg Shortage Right Now—Here’s Why appeared first on Taste Recipes.

A new study from Coupons4Real.com has insights on the cheapest overall grocery store and where to buy the cheapest groceries. Read on to find out where to save money on your grocery budget.

What is the cheapest grocery store?

Walmart is the overall cheapest grocery store chain—especially if you’re shopping for store brand vs. name brand products. The study found that Walmart-brand products (called Great Value) are typically among the 20% lowest grocery prices compared to other supermarkets like Costco, Target, Kroger and Aldi.

Below are some examples of the prices of Walmart’s average store brand prices compared to median grocery prices elsewhere.

Who else has cheap groceries?

Another great location to stock up on affordable groceries is Aldi. The study found that Aldi is the second most affordable chain for store brand groceries. The discount grocery store’s products typically rank among the 35% lowest grocery prices compared to other supermarkets.

Aldi also offers the cheapest groceries where certain types of items are concerned, including the products below.

• Cheddar: $0.21 per ounce (median price $0.43 per ounce)
• Mixed vegetables: $0.14 per ounce (median price $0.20 per ounce)
• Burger and ground beef: $0.25 per ounce (median price $0.40 per ounce)
• Fruit mixes: $0.11 per ounce (median price $0.22 per ounce)
• Lactose-free milk: $0.05 fl. oz vs. (median price $0.06 fl. oz.)
• Plant-based milk: $0.04 oz. (median price $0.05 oz.)
• Frozen seafood: $0.23 oz. (median price $0.54 oz.)
• Coffee creamers: $0.09 oz. (median price $0.10 oz.)
• Sour cream: $0.12 oz. (median price $0.15 oz.)
• Cottage cheese: $0.10 oz. (median price $0.14 oz.)

Costco received an honorable mention as the third-cheapest grocery chain—around 5% more expensive compared to Aldi. Depending on what you buy most frequently, a Costco membership could be worth the money.

The post This Is the Cheapest Place to Buy Groceries Right Now appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Read on to learn what products Target plans to mark down and when prices will change.

What will be cheaper at Target?

In a press release, Target announced plans to reduce prices on a wide range of products. The price reductions may vary by location, but generally, shoppers can expect to see savings in all departments to help prepare for the holidays. For more specific examples, the retailer pointed to products like snacks, beverages, frozen vegetables, ice cream, cookies, cough and cold medicine, toilet paper, beauty products, bath towels, toys and board games.

Below are a few items that are now available at lower prices at most Target stores, on the Target app and on Target.com.

• Coffee Mate Natural Bliss Sweet Cream Creamer (was $5.29, now $4.99)
• Crisco Vegetable Oil (was $5.29, now $4.79)
• Magic Bullet Personal Blender Set (was $49.99, now $39.99)

Keep in mind that when and how you shop may also affect the price you pay for certain items, thanks to a strategy known as dynamic pricing. Retailers commonly implement dynamic pricing techniques to increase profits. You can use price-tracking and shopping apps to help alert you if a price changes behind the scenes. No one wants to overpay!

When will prices change?

The retailer didn’t announce a firm timeline regarding when the 2,000 new price cuts would take place. Instead, Target says all of its price reductions will take place this holiday season. In its press release, Target said it “routinely adjusts its prices to remain competitive in markets across the country.” By the end of the holiday season, Target will have cut prices on 10,000 products the year.

Next Up: Take a closer look at the cost of Target’s grocery delivery.

The post Target Is Lowering Prices on over 2,000 Products This Holiday Season appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Read on to learn about the best things to buy at Costco right now.

5 Items That Will Be Cheaper

Costco members should look for price cuts the next time they visit a warehouse. Below are some of the Kirkland Signature items that will be less expensive now:

• Standard foil ($31.99, now $29.99)
• Macadamia nuts ($18.99, now $13.99)
• 3-liter Spanish olive oil ($38.99, now $34.99)
• Laundry packs ($19.99, now $18.99)
• 2-pack of baguettes ($5.99, now $4.99)

Costco credits its sustainability investments for the lower prices. For example, the chain started selling its Kirkland Signature laundry packs in a pouch instead of a plastic tub. Because Costco could reduce its plastic packaging by 80%, they were able to pass some cost savings on to members.

Regular shoppers may have already noticed that Costco reduced the price of its Kirkland Signature boneless chicken tenders by 13%. Let’s add that to our list of the best deals at Costco!

But Costco Membership Is More Expensive

There’s a caveat. The store slashed prices on several of its Kirkland Signature products, but the price of membership itself has gone up. Costco Gold Star memberships in the U.S. and Canada rose from $60 to $65 in September. Meanwhile, the price of Costco Executive Memberships increased from $120 to $130.

Still, if you’re a frequent shopper, it’s easy to offset the price increase thanks to the many benefits a Costco membership offers. Plus, it’s easy to find Costco tips that will save you money to help you get even more bang for your buck. Costco membership is still worth the cost, as long as you avoid mistakes like overbuying and impulse purchases.

The post Costco Just Dropped Prices on Its Kirkland Products appeared first on Taste Recipes.

But shoppers are often unaware that this same principle could apply to the items in your shopping cart—both online and at physical stores. Here’s what you need to know.

What is dynamic pricing?

It’s a strategy that businesses use to manage the changing supply and demand for different products and services that they sell. Other terms that describe this same business strategy include surge pricing and time-based pricing.

Unfortunately, as a consumer, dynamic pricing can have a meaningful impact on your budget. If you’re shopping for a household item, toy or other product that’s in high demand, a retailer might increase the price of that product to try to increase profits. Even groceries could cost more at certain times of the week thanks to these practices.

Is dynamic pricing legal?

As a customer, paying more for the same product or service depending on when or where you buy something feels deceptive and shady. Yet according to experts, there’s nothing illegal about stores and online retailers implementing dynamic pricing.

Hotels and airlines have been utilizing this practice for decades. In fact, the trend of businesses using this strategy of raising and lowering pricing to manage inventory and increase profits seems to be more common today than it was in the past.

Which stores use dynamic pricing?

Many retailers implement dynamic pricing strategies on a regular basis. Amazon is one of the biggest users of this pricing strategy. According to reports, the online retail giant changes prices more than 2.5 million times per day.

Other major retailers are reported to use dynamic pricing as well, including Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Kroger and others. A 2019 investigation found that Target app users paid higher prices when shopping inside a Target store versus shopping outside in the parking lot. The theory was that shopper inside the store were more committed to making a purchase, and therefore more likely to pay a higher price.

Meanwhile, Walmart is preparing to bring digital price tags to 500 of its stores to make shifting prices throughout the day easier to manage at brick-and-mortar locations. Some online reports from shoppers warn that you should be careful because the prices you see on the shelves at big box stores (and elsewhere) don’t always match the amounts you pay at checkout.

How do you avoid overpaying?

Retailers use advanced technology to track and adjust prices to earn the highest profits possible. If you want to avoid paying more where dynamic pricing is concerned, use technology to beat retailers at their game.

It’s no secret that grocery shopping apps have the ability to simplify your life and help you save money. At the same time, price-tracking programs and deal alerts can help you detect changes in the cost of goods and services behind the scenes. A few apps that could help you fight the impact of dynamic pricing include:

• Honey
• Cently
• Flipp
• PricepulseCapital One Shopping
• Slickdeals

It’s also a good idea to turn off your location tracker on any shopping apps you use—especially the Target app. Reports indicate that Target charges higher prices to customers in certain parts of the country and lower prices in others.

If you’re shopping in person, remember to make sure the price on the shelf matches the price that rings up at the register. Consider taking pictures with your phone and comparing the two before you pay.

No consumer is going to be a fan of dynamic pricing, especially when many people are already struggling with the cost of rising prices. Unfortunately, it’s here to stay. But if you’re willing to put in extra effort, you can save money and avoid paying inflated prices for the products you need.

The post Dynamic Pricing: Which Stores Use It and How Does It Work? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

When you have to spend more to feed your family, there’s less money left over to cover the cost of everything else. Unfortunately, there isn’t anything you can do about the prices you face at the grocery store. Yet there are grocery shopping habits you can change to save money, and a budget grocery list can be a great place to start.

Keep in mind that grocery shopping on a budget doesn’t mean you should always look for the cheapest items at the store. Spending a little more money on filling, nutrient-filled foods is often the smarter and more financially savvy choice in the long run.

Below are our best budget grocery list ideas, broken down into six easy-to-follow categories, to make your next shopping trip a little easier (and hopefully a lot more affordable).

Produce

Between rising prices and a shorter shelf life, saving money on fresh fruits and vegetables can be a challenge. But if you use smart shopping strategies like buying produce with a longer shelf life, shopping for in-season fruits and veggies, or shopping at affordable retailers (like salvage grocery stores), there are plenty of opportunities to save.

Fruits

• Longer Shelf Life: Apples, Blueberries, Blackberries, Cherries, Lemons, Oranges, Tomatoes, Watermelon
• Spring Season: Avocado, Strawberries, Pineapples, Apricots
• Summer Season: Peaches
• Fall Season: Grapes, Pears, Kiwi
• Winter Season: Grapefruit

Vegetables

• Longer Shelf Life: Broccoli, Carrots, Cucumbers, Garlic, Lettuce, Onions, Potatoes, Mushrooms
• Spring Season: Asparagus, Artichokes
• Summer Season: Green Beans, Zucchini, Summer Squash, Eggplant
• Fall Season: Swiss Chard, Turnip Greens, Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts
• Winter Season: Winter Squash, Pumpkins, Leeks

Meats and Meat Alternatives

For many shoppers, meat and meat alternatives represent one of the most expensive categories in their food budget. Buying meat in bulk from a meat supplier or your favorite warehouse store are potential ways to save some cash at the grocery store. And cooking recipes with ground beef or your preferred ground protein (e.g., turkey or chicken) could also help keep your grocery budget under control.

Opting for more affordable meat selections could help keep your costs down as well, but you may need to try some tricks to get cheap meat to taste expensive, like slow cooker recipes or marinating your cuts to make them more tender. Opt for these cheaper cuts of meat:

• Flank Steak
• Bottom Sirloin
• Short Rib
• Chuck Roast
• Pork Butt
• Lamb Shoulder

Seafood

The cost of certain seafoods, like the cost of produce, may also ebb and flow based on the season. Factors like weather and global supply and demand can play a big role in seafood prices as well. But if you’re looking for ways to build a budget grocery list, consider shopping in season for the following seafood items to potentially save money and unlock the freshest flavors for your favorite seafood recipes.

Fish

• Spring Season: Bluefin Tuna
• Summer Season: Salmon, Cod (Atlantic), Bluefish, Striped Bass, Albacore Tuna
• Fall Season: Halibut
• Winter Season: Cod (Pacific), Skate, Monkfish

Shellfish

• Spring Season: Soft Shell Crabs
• Summer Season: Maine Lobster
• Fall Season: Scallops, Blue Crabs, Snow Crabs
• Winter Season: Stone Crabs, Dungeness Crabs

Note that many fisherman will use modern flash freezing technology on a portion of their catch right on the boat. As a result, the seafood quality remains very high, but the prices of this frozen seafood can be a lot more affordable for budget-conscious shoppers.

Eggs, Dairy and Dairy Alternatives

The soaring price of eggs made headlines and was the subject of countless memes and social media videos in recent months. Yet even though the cost of eggs is finally coming down again, it still costs shoppers 55% more to buy a dozen eggs than it did a year ago.

If you’re searching for money-saving options for eggs, dairy or dairy alternatives for your budget grocery list, here are a few options to consider:

• Shop sales: There are even convenient grocery store apps that can make deal-hunting in your area a lot easier.
• Substitute eggs for meat: Cooking egg recipes instead of meat recipes, even a few times a week, could be a creative way to lower your grocery costs.
• Buy in bulk: You can often find dairy, dairy alternatives and eggs at a cheaper price if you’re willing to buy these items in bulk at Sam’s Club, Costco or your favorite warehouse store.

Pantry Staples

Some of the best ways to save on your budget grocery list involve stocking your shelves with affordable pantry staples and creating tasty recipes from these items. If you have the time and inclination, you could even try your hand at making pantry staples at home to supercharge your savings.

Here are some ideas on how to stock your pantry on a budget:

• Purchase in bulk when shopping for items with a long shelf life (e.g., oatmeal, rice, beans, legumes, dried pasta, coffee)
• Shop after-season sales (but pay attention to expiration dates).
• Use coupons to stretch your dollars.
• Opt for store brand instead of brand name products when possible.

Frozen Foods

In general, frozen foods cost less compared to their fresh counterparts. So when you add frozen foods to your budget grocery list, you can often reduce costs and extend the shelf life of the items you purchase at the same time. If you’re able to store the food you purchase in a deep freezer (at 0°F), your food could last indefinitely, according to FoodSafety.gov, although the quality may degrade over time.

Here are some frozen foods to purchase, either in bulk or when they’re on sale:

• Meats (like poultry and seafood)
• Vegetables (spinach, carrots, peas, green beans, corn, etc.)
• Berries
• Frozen Meals

Bottom Line

It can be frustrating to face higher prices at the grocery store, especially when your budget is tight. But if you use some of the strategies above to build your budget grocery list, it’s still possible to lower your food costs in creative ways without sacrificing on flavor in the process. Before you move ahead, get to know about the cheapest grocery store in America.

The post Budget Grocery List: 60+ Foods That’ll Keep Your Grocery Bill Low appeared first on Taste Recipes.

One possible way to cut back on costs is to swap out the store brand vs. name brand items in your shopping cart. Savvy shoppers in the United States save more than $40 billion each year on grocery and household goods by choosing store-brand products over name-brand counterparts, according to the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA).

Here’s how to save with store-brand products.

Saving Money with Store Brands

Across the country, shoppers are facing high prices at the grocery store on a wide variety of products from eggs and milk to meat and pantry staples. So it’s no surprise that the popularity of store brands is on the rise. Store-brand sales increased by 11.3% in 2022, according to PLMA, and one out of every five grocery products sold in the United States is now a store-brand product.

Shoppers could unlock substantial savings by choosing the store brand vs. name-brand products. Those who opt for the store brand save an average of 25% on their purchases, according to Consumer Reports. And in some cases, the savings can far exceed these estimates! There’s also plenty of evidence to suggest that the same manufacturers often produce both the brand-name products and the store-brand products.

Supermarkets like Aldi have long recognized the value in avoiding name-brand items. Ninety percent of products at Aldi are private label, so the chain can offer its customers more affordable prices.

Meanwhile, shoppers and Sam’s Club and Costco have long been fans of the high-quality store-brand products offered by the two membership clubs. Kirkland Signature Brand—the store-brand products at Costco—generated over $58 billion in sales for Costco last year alone. The label is so popular that many Costco shoppers prefer to buy the Kirkland brand.

Store-Brand Items to Buy

If you’re weighing store-brand vs. name-brand pros and cons, it’s important to understand that you might not make the same decision in every scenario. The trick is to find situations where opting for a store brand doesn’t make a difference in terms of flavor or quality, and enjoy the savings you can unlock. This smart grocery-shopping habit could help you save hundreds of dollars.

There are many store-brand items you can consider to stretch your grocery budget further:

• Cereal
• Eggs
• Dairy (e.g., milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.)
• Soft drinks
• Frozen foods (e.g., vegetables, fruit, bread, etc.)
• Staples (e.g., rice, beans, pasta, peanut butter, canned goods, etc.)
• Baked goods
• Spices
• Condiments (e.g., ketchup, mustard, salad dressing, etc.)
• Paper goods (e.g., paper towels, paper plates, napkins, etc.)
• Cleaning products

See how generic cereals compare to the name brands.

Store-Brand Items to Skip

Of course, there are situations where the quality or taste of store-brand items may fall short of their name-brand counterparts. Many people have tasted a cake mix or other product where the flavor didn’t live up to the name-brand equivalent. And sometimes the quality of store-brand products can be inferior as well—such as flimsy napkins or paper towels that require you to use double or triple the product to clean up a mess.

There’s no definitive list of generic items you should always skip. For example, a store-brand tomato sauce might taste terrible from one retailer and delicious from somewhere else. As a result, buying private-label items may require some trial and error. (Bonus: If you shop somewhere like Costco, the warehouse store’s generous return policy lets you return items you purchase for virtually any reason—even if you simply didn’t like the way something tastes.)

Generic goods don’t always win in the store-brand vs. name-brand price battle either. Did you know there are some off-brand products that give tough competition to the originals? The next time you’re in the mood for a snack, give these off-brand Cheezits a taste.

The only way to find your ideal brand is to do your own price comparisons to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Sometimes you can find a lower price when you buy brand-name products in bulk or on sale at other retailers compared to private-label products.

The post Store Brand vs. Name Brand: How to Decide Which Food to Buy appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Salvage grocery stores might be the solution to stretch your grocery dollars. According to some reports, salvage grocery stores help shoppers save as much as 50%! At the same time, these stores help reduce food waste by giving products a second chance to be “rescued” and sold at a discount rather than tossed out.

Here’s what you need know about how salvage grocery stores work and where to find one near you.

What Is a Salvage Grocery Store?

A salvage grocery store is a type of discount retail store that offers food products that traditional grocery stores are unwilling (or unable) to sell. Sometimes called outlet grocery stores, shoppers can often score deep discounts in exchange for buying products that are near or past their expiration or suggested “sell by” dates, dented cans, out-of-season items or overstocked items. Some salvage grocery stores may also sell imperfect produce, baked goods and meat.

Where Do Salvage Grocery Stores Get Items?

The items that end up on the shelves of a salvage grocery store often start out at a manufacturer, distributor or store. When one of these entities no longer wants certain items to remain in its inventory (such as foods that are not selling fast enough or products that are slightly damaged), it may reach out to a third-party food liquidator.

Once the unwanted products are in the hands of food liquidator, there are several potential paths they might take. The products could end up at food banks, with salvage-type food delivery services (like Misfits Market or Imperfect Foods), at dollar stores or, you guessed it, on the shelves of salvage grocery stores.

Is Food at Salvage Grocery Stores Safe to Eat?

The government inspects the food you buy from a salvage grocery store like it inspects food at traditional grocery stores. So as long as you follow some key rules of thumb, consuming items you purchase from a salvage grocery store should be safe.

• Dents: A small dent in an item is fine. But watch out for large dents, leaks or bulging cans. Broken jars are also something to avoid.
• Torn Boxes: Boxes with tears or dents are fine to purchase as long as the plastic inside the box is still intact.
• Expiration Dates: Baby food and formula are the only thing you should never buy after the date on the package. With other foods, the “use by” or “sell by” date is a freshness suggestion from the manufacturer that pertains to food quality, not a time limit on when a food is safe to consume.
• Frozen Food: You should only buy frozen food if you’re confident it has been stored properly.

Tips for Shopping at a Salvage Store

In addition to the tips above, allow extra time when shopping at a salvage grocery store. Inventory can be inconsistent. Salvage store shelves may also not be organized in the same way as your regular grocery store shelves. So, it could take you longer to locate items during your shopping trip.

Be flexible when bargain hunting and see what food options are available rather than expecting to find specific items on a grocery list. It may also be helpful to see what useful food items you can find at your local salvage grocery store first, then visit a traditional supermarket to fill in the gaps with any additional ingredients you need for the upcoming days or week.

Before you visit a local outlet grocery store, look up the hours of the store online along with accepted payment methods. Some retailers may not accept credit cards. Others might offer an additional discount if you pay with cash.

Additionally, consider calling the store to ask which day it receives new stock and plan to visit when new products arrive for the best experience. Some local stores even maintain Facebook or Instagram pages you can follow for advance previews of inventory in your area.

How Do I Find Salvage Grocery Stores Near Me?

Finding a salvage grocery store near you could make it easier to grocery shop on a budget.

If a Google search doesn’t turn up any results in your area, try looking for a salvage grocery store on one of the following directories: buysalvagefood.com or extremebargains.net.

Salvage grocery stores can require a bit more legwork to find the best deals. But visiting these discount stores might save you a ton of money and help you reduce food waste at the same time. If you’re looking for other ways to save on food costs, consider these secret grocery shopping tips for inspiration.

The post What You Need to Know About Salvage Grocery Stores appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Households across the country are feeling the financial squeeze of higher grocery prices. American families are dealing with food shortages and the highest inflation numbers at the grocery store we’ve seen in 40 years. Everything from bacon and eggs to bread and juice costs a lot more than it did last year.

Rising grocery prices can put anyone’s budget—even a financial expert’s—under stress. Sharita M. Humphrey, Houston-based Certified Financial Educator and founder of Sharita M. Humphrey Consulting, knew it was time to take action when higher grocery bills threatened to stall her big financial goals.

Setting Goals

As a financial educator, Sharita has dedicated her life to helping women and small business owners reach their goals. But as much as she loves helping others conquer the financial stresses in their lives, there’s another area that this working mom is even more passionate about—her family.

Love for family has inspired Sharita to shoot for the stars in many ways. Her most audacious goal is to retire in early. “Financial and time freedom are important to me,” Sharita says, “because I have a goal to retire by December 2029.”

If left unchecked, inflation could threaten to derail or at least slow down Sharita’s financial goals. So this mom and business owner decided to take some actions to offset the damage that a higher grocery bill was doing to her budget.

(Psst: Learn more about the woman-owned businesses we love.)

Saving Money on Groceries

These smart strategies helped Sharita save $4,800 on groceries in one year.

Change No. 1: Buying in Bulk

Monthly savings: $250

If you’re careful with your shopping choices, buying in bulk could save you both money and time. This savings potential is why wholesale warehouse clubs are so popular.

Sharita decided to put this theory to the test and started buying staples, snack items, detergents and more in bulk at her local Sam’s Club and Costco stores. The adjustment to her shopping habits saved her around $250 per month. Plus, buying strategically in bulk eliminated the need for multiple trips to the grocery store, saving Sharita valuable time and gas money, too.

Change No. 2: Embracing Technology

Monthly savings: $50

Another adjustment that Sharita made to save money on groceries was the decision to use technology to her advantage. By using two grocery shopping apps, she made some big changes in her food budget to combat rising food prices.

The Flipp app made it easy for the Houston-based mom to plan meals according to her local grocery deals. Fetch Rewards helped Sharita earn gift card bonuses on food purchases that she needed to make anyway. Using these two convenient tools on her mobile phone helped Sharita rack up a monthly savings of at least $50 (often more).

Change No. 3: Shopping from the Pantry

Monthly savings: $100

The final change the Sharita made to her grocery-buying habits was shopping from her pantry first. This decision saved her around $100 per month. “I would use all or most of the items in my pantry before going to the grocery store.” The working mom watched YouTube videos for inspiration on making new meals from pantry ingredients.

Making the Most of the Savings

These changes helped Sharita to offset the negative impact that inflation was having on her grocery budget. But the newfound grocery shopping habits helped her wind up with extra savings, as well. So Sharita had the enjoyable task of figuring out how to use the extra money.

“I’ve committed to spending only a small percentage of the extra savings,” she says. “I treat myself to a monthly facial, an item on my shopping wish list, and a weekend road trip once a quarter.”

Starting Your Own Savings Plan

If you’re interested in cutting your food budget like Sharita did, consider making these grocery shopping changes, as well. The financial coach also suggests doing a spending audit. “I would encourage you to review your bank statements for the last 30 to 60 days to see how much you’re eating out,” she says. “Reducing dining out purchases can help put money back into your monthly grocery budget.” Sharita also recommends using cash to avoid overspending on food purchases and planning meals around deals at your local grocery stores.

How do you save money on groceries? Share your tips with us!

The post ‘I Changed 3 Grocery Shopping Habits and Saved $4,800’ appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Barbecue Chicken

Grilled Broccoli

I started using this recipe in 1987, when I began cooking light, and it’s been a favorite side dish ever since. With its lemon and Parmesan flavors, it once took second place in a cooking contest. —Recipe contributor Alice Nulle, Woodstock, Illinois

Grilled Glazed Drummies

My family prefers these mild-tasting chicken wings more than the traditional hot wings. They are great for any gathering. —Recipe contributor Laura Mahaffey, Annapolis, Maryland

Grilled Corn in Husks

If you’re new to grilled corn in the husk, season the ears with butter, Parmesan cheese and parsley. It’s especially good! Be sure to give the corn a long soak before putting it on the grill. Hot off the grate, the kernels are moist and tender with a wonderful, sweet flavor. —Recipe contributor Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey

Grilled Turkey Breast

You’ll want to give thanks for this mouthwatering, slightly sweet turkey! A hint of spice makes this one of our best turkey recipes ever. —Recipe contributor Tina Mirilovich, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Grilled Stone Fruits with Balsamic Syrup

Get ready to experience another side of stone fruits. Hot off the rack, these grilled nectarines practically melt in your mouth. —Recipe contributor Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California

Tailgate Sausages

You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to fix these tasty sandwiches. Fully cooked sausages are placed in buns with cheese and topped with giardiniera, then wrapped in foil so they’re easy to transport and a breeze to grill. —Recipe contributor Matthew Hass, Ellison Bay, Wisconsin

Grilled Potato Fans with Onions

Looking for the ultimate grilled potato? These seasoned potato “fans” are filled with tender onions, roasted garlic cloves and savory Parmesan cheese. —Recipe contributor Sharon Crabtree, Graham, Washington

Grilled Pineapple Chicken

A trip to Hawaii is easy with this juicy grilled pineapple chicken. Simply give it a quick marinade, fire up the grill and let it sizzle. We love this low-carb recipe! —Recipe contributor Charlotte Rogers, Virginia Beach, Virginia

Ginger-Glazed Grilled Honeydew

If you’ve never grilled fruit like this before, you’re in for a real treat! I love the idea of cooking everything from appetizers to desserts on the grill. This grilled honeydew recipe is sweet and really light. —Recipe contributor Jacqui Correa, Landing, New Jersey

Sweet Tea Barbecued Chicken

Marinades sometimes use coffee or espresso, and that inspired me to try tea and apple juice to perk up this sauce. —Recipe contributor Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey

Grilled Asparagus

Tender, with a delicious barbecue flavor, this grilled asparagus makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats. Don’t know how to cook asparagus on the grill? Just place the stalks on a double skewer. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Grilled Peach Sundaes

These peaches with a hint of grill flavor are sweet and juicy. We serve them in a waffle bowl with ice cream. That’s jackpot at our house. —Recipe contributor Nancy Dentler, Greensboro, North Carolina

Orange-Spiced Chicken

Five ingredients are all you’ll need for this fast and extremely flavorful marinade. With one taste, it’ll become your most-requested chicken recipe! —Recipe contributor Debra Stevens, Lutz, Florida

Easy Grilled Squash

This is one of the best ways to prepare butternut squash and is great alongside grilled steak or chicken. As a bonus, butternut squash is full of vitamin A. —Recipe contributor Esther Horst, Monterey, Tennessee

Potato-Sausage Foil Packs

We had these smoky campfire bundles at a friend’s house for dinner and loved the simplicity of this great summer meal. Now we often make it for summer weeknight dinners. —Recipe contributor Alissa Keith, Forest, Virginia

Romano Basil Turkey Breast

Guests will be impressed when you slice this golden, grilled turkey breast, dressed up with a flavorful layer of basil and cheese under the skin. —Recipe contributor Darlene Markham, Rochester, New York

Bacon Cheeseburger

Where can you get a juicy burger that is so superior to drive-thru fare? Right in your backyard with this delicious bacon cheeseburger recipe. —Recipe contributor Jackie Burns, Silverdale, Washington

Blueberry-Rhubarb Crumble

A dollop of whipped topping adds a nice finishing touch to this satisfying crumble. Sometimes I drizzle a little flavored coffee creamer on top instead of the whipped topping. —Recipe contributor Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana

Turkey Burgers

These juicy, tender patties on whole wheat buns make a wholesome, satisfying sandwich. We especially like to make grilled turkey burgers, but you could also pan-fry them. —Recipe contributor Sherry Hulsman, Elkton, Florida

Chicken Pitas

I switched up my mom’s recipe to create this tasty pita pocket variation. It’s one of our favorite grilled chicken recipes and is perfect for warm days. The creamy cucumber sauce goes great with the fresh, crunchy veggies. —Recipe contributor Blair Lonergan, Rochelle, Virginia

Mustard Turkey Cutlets

Grilled turkey cutlets are treated with a slightly sweet sauce that mustard-lovers will thoroughly enjoy. This recipe feels fancy, but it’s ideal for a weeknight. —Recipe contributor Deborah Williams, Peoria, Arizona

Ultimate Grilled Pork Chops

A little brining and a special dry rub go a long way to making the perfect pork chop. Once you’ve mastered how to cook thick pork chops, you’ll be enjoying them all summer long. —Recipe contributor Matthew Hass, Franklin, Wisconsin

Herbed Grilled Corn on the Cob

I’d never had grilled corn until last summer when my sister-in-law served it for us. What a treat! So simple, yet delicious, grilled corn is now a must on my summer menu. —Recipe contributor Angela Leinenbach, Mechanicsville, Virginia

Pot of S’mores

Mom’s easy Dutch-oven version of the popular campout treat is so good and gooey. The hardest part is waiting for this to cool so you can devour it. Yum! —Recipe contributor June Dress, Meridian, Idaho

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Grilled Sausage-Basil Pizzas

We love basil recipes, and these easy little pizzas are a wonderful change of pace from the classic cookout menu. Let everybody go crazy with the toppings. —Recipe contributor Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida

Quick Barbecued Beans

Barbecued beans are a simple, classic recipe and cooking them on the grill adds great smoky flavor. —Recipe contributor Millie Vickery, Lena, Illinois

Honey-Mustard Brats

Our honey mustard glaze gives every bite of these brats a sweet and punchy flavor. Everyone who tries them agrees they’re delicious. —Recipe contributor Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

Grilled Jalapenos

When barbecuing for friends at home, I also use the grill to serve up hot appetizers. These crowd-pleasing stuffed peppers have a bit of bite. They were concocted by my son. —Recipe contributor Catherine Hollie, Cleveland, Texas

Grilled Orange Chicken Thighs

This orangey chicken was the first meal I served my future husband. I chose it because it’s easy, but he thought it was amazing and gobbled it up. We were married three months later, so I guess it worked. —Recipe contributor Leah Harvath, Heber City, Utah

Barley Beef Burgers

Barley adds another dimension to an old-fashioned hamburger. My husband and I really enjoy these juicy patties with onion and barbecue sauce mixed right in. —Recipe contributor Rosella Peters, Gull Lake, Saskatchewan

Sausage Squash Kabobs

Expect a crowd to gather around the grill when these flavorful kabobs are cooking. The zesty honey-mustard glaze gives a lovely sheen to the sausage and veggies. —Recipe contributor Lisa Malynn Kent, North Richland Hills, Texas.

Beer Can Chicken

Baby Back Ribs

Slow-cook the ribs during the day and they will be ready to finish on the grill when you get home. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Grilled Angel Food Cake with Strawberries

One night I goofed, accidentally using the balsamic butter I save for grilling chicken on my pound cake. What a delicious mistake that my entire family loved! For a patriotic look, add a drizzle of blueberry syrup. —Recipe contributor Tammy Hathaway, Freeman Township, Maine

Big John’s Chili-Rubbed Ribs

When my family thinks of summer grilling, it’s ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions. —Recipe contributor Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida

Grilled Tilapia Piccata

We aren’t big fish eaters, but a friend made this for us, and we couldn’t believe how wonderful it was! Now we eat it regularly. I love making it for guests because it’s simple, looks lovely and tastes restaurant-worthy. —Recipe contributor Beth Cooper, Columbus, Ohio

Grilled Pineapple with Lime Dip

Serve this dish as an appetizer or a dessert— the choice is yours! If desired, the pineapple spears can be rolled in flaked coconut before grilling. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Jalapeno-Lime Chicken Drumsticks

Bottled hot sauce isn’t my thing, so I developed a fresh pepper glaze for grilled chicken. These drumsticks practically fly off the plate. —Recipe contributor Kristeen DeVorss, Farmington, New Mexico

Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos

My grandparents came from Mexico, and I grew up watching my grandmother and mother in the kitchen. This steak marinated in beer and lime juice honors their passion for cooking. —Recipe contributor Adan Franco, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Spicy Grilled Eggplant

This side dish goes well with any meat you might also be grilling. Thanks to the Cajun seasoning, the zesty eggplant gets more attention than an ordinary veggie. —Recipe contributor Greg Fontenot, The Woodlands, Texas

Grilled Potato Packets

Potatoes require a little extra time on the grill, so remember to give these pouches first dibs on the flames. —Recipe contributor Anna Bjornn, Rexburg, Idaho

Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa

Years ago I found a grilled tilapia recipe in a seafood cookbook. The pineapple salsa with cilantro has a touch of spice and goes so well with the flaky, tender fish. —Recipe contributor Beth Fleming, Downers Grove, Illinois

Grilled Cabbage

The first time I made this, I couldn’t believe how good it was! We served it with grilled burgers and our dinner was complete. I never thought I’d skip dessert because I was full from too much cabbage! —Recipe contributor Elizabeth Wheeler, Thornville, Ohio

Cheap Grilling Ideas FAQ

What is the best food to grill on a budget?

If you’re looking to stretch your dollar, consider buying vegetables that are in season and inexpensive cuts of meat. Skip the fancy cuts, buy in bulk and talk to your butcher for the best deals.

How do I feed a crowd on a budget?

Hosting a party on a budget can be challenging. But if you’re wise with your menu, it’s possible to feed a group without going overboard financially. Choose affordable meat, like chicken thighs and drumsticks, or make tacos instead of hamburgers to make your meat go further. You could also ask partygoers to bring a dish to the gathering.

The post 45 Cheap Grilling Ideas appeared first on Taste Recipes.

1. Costco Store Brand

Store brand products are often dismissed as lower quality goods that can disappoint compared to their name brand counterparts, making shoppers wonder if the cheaper prices are worth it. But one Costco member benefit is the ability to purchase Kirkland Signature items. These Costco store brand products are often better than name brand equivalents. And despite the high quantity of rave reviews that Kirkland products receive, they generally cost less than similar products sold by national brands.

2. Discount Gift Cards

When it comes to gift cards, what you pay for is usually what you get. But that’s not always the case at Costco. The warehouse store sells gift cards to restaurants, movie theaters and more for less than their face value. We’ve spotted deals such as five $20 gift cards to Peet’s Coffee or four $25 gift cards to Domino’s for $79.99.

3. Vacation Savings

Another Costco member benefit is the potential to save on your next vacation. Costco has partnerships with companies like Best Western and Hyatt, which means access to bulk group discounts you might not be able to find elsewhere. With deals on cruises, theme parks and more, all you need to do is start packing your bags.

4. Lower Car Costs

Costco probably isn’t the first name that comes to mind when you need to purchase a car. But Costco’s Auto Program is a membership benefit that might help you the next time you’re shopping for a new set of wheels. The store works with more than 3,000 dealerships where your Costco membership might get you discounts. Of course, when it comes to a major purchase like a car (and an auto loan), it’s important to shop around and make sure you’re getting the best deal.

5. Water Delivery

Not a fan of tap water? Forget filling (and refilling) your Brita pitcher; Costco will help you stay hydrated. Once you choose spring or purified, Costco will deliver bulk bottles to your front door for as little as $6.99 per 5 gallon bottle.

6. Insurance Coverage

As a Costco member, you have access to Costco’s Health Insurance Marketplace, where you can shop for health, dental and vision plans. If you’re buying a home or getting a new car, you can look into Costco’s partnership with Ameriprise. However, it’s always wise to shop around with any insurance policy to make sure you’re getting the best rate and coverage options available.

7. Pharmacy Discounts

Prescriptions are one of the products you can buy at Costco without a membership. If you do have a membership, one of your Costco member benefits is the Costco Member Prescription Program, which gives you access to member-only prices at thousands of network pharmacies. Savings could range from 2% to 40% depending on the medication. You can even list eligible dependents and pets under your plan at no additional cost and save on their eligible medications as well.

8. Tire Discounts

Another Costco member benefit is the ability to buy tires for your vehicle at a discount. Plus, at certain times of the year, Costco offers discounts on select brands of tires that could amplify your potential savings even more. The tire installation package from Costco also includes lifetime maintenance services—so you can bring your car in to have your tires balanced and rotated and get pressure checks and flat repairs as well.

9. Cheaper Wine and Spirits

Depending on your location, members and non-members alike can score deep discounts when buying alcohol at Costco. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that Costco is the largest wine retailer in the United States. According to some experts, you could save as much as 10% to 20% per bottle when you purchase your wine at Costco compared to other wine retailers.

10. Costco’s Legendary Return Policy

One of the best Costco membership benefits is the warehouse’s generous return policy. With a few exceptions, Costco offers a risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee. You can even return an opened food item if you don’t like how it tastes. The warehouse store also lets you submit a request for a credit if you purchase an item and the price drops within 30 days.

Our list doesn’t even cover all of the perks Costco offers its members. Memberships start at $60 (plus tax) per year, and you can cancel membership and request a refund if you change your mind. That’s not it; you can use these Costco tips to save more money.

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