Many shoppers assume that store-brand products are lower in quality compared to national brands, but that’s not always the case. Some grocery store private labels offer better ingredients, fresher produce, and even premium selections at a fraction of the price. While these brands may not have flashy advertisements, their products often match or exceed the quality of well-known names. Here are seven grocery store brands that secretly have some of the best quality products on the market.
Image Source: Pexels
1. Kirkland Signature
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private-label brand, and it has developed a reputation for exceptional quality at unbeatable prices. Many of Kirkland’s products are sourced from the same manufacturers as top national brands. Their organic eggs, olive oil, and coffee consistently receive high marks for quality, and their wines and liquors often rival premium brands at a fraction of the cost. Some of Kirkland’s items are even made by companies like Starbucks, Grey Goose, and Duracell, making it one of the best store brands for shoppers who want high-end products without the luxury price tag.
2. 365 by Whole Foods Market
For health-conscious shoppers, Whole Foods’ 365 brand offers organic, non-GMO, and responsibly sourced products at lower prices than national organic brands. Their 365 Almond Butter, frozen vegetables, and canned beans are praised for their clean ingredients and fresh taste. While Whole Foods has a reputation for being pricey, their 365 line makes organic and natural products more accessible to budget-conscious shoppers. Many of their pantry staples, including organic pasta and frozen fruit, rival premium organic brands in both taste and quality.
3. Trader Joe’s Store Brand
Trader Joe’s is famous for its unique and high-quality private-label products. Many of which are sourced from national manufacturers but sold at lower prices. Their frozen meals, cheeses, and snack foods have developed a cult following due to their premium ingredients and innovative flavors. Popular items like Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken, Speculoos Cookie Butter, and Everything but the Bagel Seasoning have become staples. Because Trader Joe’s keeps branding minimal and cuts out middlemen, they offer gourmet-level food at budget-friendly prices.
4. Good & Gather
Target rebranded its grocery line under the Good & Gather label, focusing on high-quality ingredients, fewer additives, and delicious flavors. This brand includes organic, plant-based, and premium options at prices that compete with or beat national brands. Items like Good & Gather’s pasta sauces, hummus, and organic almond milk often outperform pricier alternatives. The brand has expanded to include chef-inspired frozen meals and specialty snacks, proving that store brands can be both affordable and gourmet.
5. Private Selection
Kroger’s Private Selection line brings restaurant-quality ingredients to everyday grocery shopping. This upscale store brand includes premium cheeses, artisan breads, frozen seafood, and gourmet pastas that rival name-brand competitors. Many shoppers love Private Selection ice cream, organic coffee, and specialty meats, which offer higher-end flavors at a fraction of the cost of gourmet brands. If you enjoy experimenting with unique ingredients without paying premium prices, Private Selection is worth a try.
6. Simple Truth
Another standout from Kroger is Simple Truth. The line focuses on organic and natural products without artificial ingredients. This brand competes directly with pricier organic labels like Annie’s and Nature’s Path but at a lower cost. Simple Truth’s organic eggs, grass-fed beef, and plant-based snacks are well-reviewed for their quality and affordability. The brand has also expanded into vegan and gluten-free options. This makes it a favorite for health-conscious shoppers who want clean ingredients without the premium price tag.
7. Great Value
Walmart’s Great Value brand has been steadily improving in quality while keeping prices low. Their canned vegetables, baking essentials, and dairy products are among the best value available. Some Great Value products, like their vanilla ice cream and frozen waffles, have won blind taste tests against name brands. With Walmart’s vast distribution network, they’re able to offer fresh, high-quality ingredients at a lower cost than many competitors. If you’re shopping on a budget but don’t want to compromise on quality, Great Value is a smart choice.
Just because a product carries a store-brand label doesn’t mean it’s lower in quality. In many cases, these grocery store brands offer the best quality products at lower prices than their name-brand competitors. From Costco’s Kirkland Signature to Kroger’s Private Selection and Simple Truth, these seven brands have built a reputation for delivering top-tier products without the premium price tag.
Read More
