Saving Money: Top 10 Foods Not to Buy Generic

Saving money on food is the pride of any domestic goddess and a fair share of men, too. Yet, saving pennies while sacrificing big taste is a common mistake. Infuse about $5 to $10 more a month into your food pantry for wonderful tasting meals.

A bit of background: Blessed with a childhood that was mostly void of fast food, and substantially varied for a kid, from seafood to sauerkraut, TV dinners to turnips, my taste buds developed an early education. Cooking has been a passion since, my superhero was Julia Childs.

Moving on from the play-acting then... I pride myself as a well-rounded epicure, rarely cook with prepackaged meals, and while it isn't often elaborate, it is flavorful home cooking on a budget. So I appreciate good tasting food at a reasonable cost.

Yet, it amazes me to see people with a $60,000 gourmet kitchen and a spice cabinet filled with dollar store fare. Saving money to pay off the kitchen?

Nevertheless, saving money with generic food, or any other commodity, is something I heartily support. Yet, some consumables are worth an extra ten cents, even a dollar, because of the quality and value. Generic food or sales items may even cost more in the end as more product is consumed, or it tarnishes a meal, and it goes to waste. Next time you try saving money at the grocery store, see if it really is a good deal or a bad one.

Worcestershire: Commonly used to season meats and meat-based dishes, does it make sense to save 30 cents every three to six months? Used on some of the most expensive dishes, such as steaks, it is worth the price to get the leading brand, Lea & Perrins.

Soy sauce: Similar to the philosophy behind Worcestershire, saving money on generic doesn't work. This condiment is more commonly used and significantly affects flavor. Not only do you want to avoid generic brands, most any brand falls short of Kikkoman's.

Are you really saving money buying generic?

Credit: © tmcnem - FOTOLIA

Copyright: © tmcnem - FOTOLIA