Store brands used to have a reputation for being the cheaper, less tasty option. But things have changed. Today, many store brands not only match the quality of name brands—they sometimes beat them in blind taste tests. This matters for anyone who wants to save money without giving up flavor. You might be surprised at how often the store brand comes out on top. If you’re looking to cut your grocery bill, knowing which store brands win in taste tests can help you shop smarter. Here are 12 store brands that often outsell name brands in blind taste tests.
1. Kirkland Signature Vanilla Ice Cream
Kirkland Signature, Costco’s store brand, has a loyal following. Their vanilla ice cream is a standout. In blind taste tests, many people pick Kirkland over premium brands like Häagen-Dazs. The texture is creamy, and the vanilla flavor is strong but not overpowering. It’s also sold in large tubs, so you get more for your money. If you want quality ice cream without the high price, Kirkland Signature is a smart choice. The primary SEO keyword, “blind taste tests,” is often mentioned in reviews of this product.
2. Trader Joe’s Peanut Butter
Trader Joe’s peanut butter is simple. It has just peanuts and salt. In blind taste tests, it often beats big brands like Jif and Skippy. The flavor is rich and natural, and the texture is smooth. People like that it doesn’t have added sugar or oils. If you want a peanut butter that tastes like peanuts, Trader Joe’s is a good pick. It’s also affordable, which makes it even better.
3. Aldi’s Millville Cereal
Aldi’s Millville cereals are known for being close copies of popular brands. But in blind taste tests, some Millville cereals actually win. For example, their version of Honey Nut Cheerios is often picked over the original. The taste is sweet but not too sweet, and the crunch holds up in milk. If you want to save money on breakfast, try Millville. You might not notice the difference, except in your wallet.
4. 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Pasta
Whole Foods’ 365 brand offers organic pasta at a lower price than many name brands. In blind taste tests, people often can’t tell the difference between 365 and more expensive brands like Barilla or De Cecco. The pasta cooks evenly and has a good bite. If you want organic pasta without the premium price, 365 is a solid option. It’s a good example of how store brands can compete in blind taste tests.
5. Great Value Ketchup
Walmart’s Great Value ketchup is a surprise winner in many blind taste tests. Some people even prefer it to Heinz. The flavor is tangy and sweet, and the texture is thick. It’s also much cheaper than name brands. If you use a lot of ketchup, switching to Great Value can save you money without sacrificing taste. This is another case where blind taste tests show that store brands can be just as good.
6. Target’s Good & Gather Greek Yogurt
Target’s Good & Gather Greek yogurt is creamy and has a clean, tangy flavor. In blind taste tests, it often beats brands like Chobani and Fage. The texture is thick, and it comes in a variety of flavors. It’s also less expensive than most name brands. If you eat yogurt every day, Good & Gather is worth trying. You might find you like it better than the brand you usually buy.
7. Safeway Signature Select Coffee
Coffee lovers can be picky, but Safeway’s Signature Select coffee holds its own. In blind taste tests, it sometimes beats Starbucks and Dunkin’. The flavor is bold but not bitter, and it’s available in several roasts. It’s also affordable, which is important if you drink coffee every morning. If you want good coffee without the high price, Signature Select is a smart choice.
8. Publix Premium Orange Juice
Publix Premium orange juice is a favorite in the Southeast. In blind taste tests, it often comes out ahead of Tropicana and Minute Maid. The flavor is fresh and not too acidic. It tastes like real oranges, not concentrate. If you live near a Publix, their store brand orange juice is worth a try. It’s another example of a store brand winning in blind taste tests.
9. Kroger Deluxe Ice Cream
Kroger’s Deluxe ice cream is creamy and comes in many flavors. In blind taste tests, it sometimes beats Breyers and Edy’s. The texture is smooth, and the flavors are rich. It’s also less expensive than most name brands. If you want to try new ice cream flavors without spending a lot, Kroger Deluxe is a good option.
10. Wegmans Pasta Sauce
Wegmans is known for quality, and its pasta sauce is no exception. In blind taste tests, it often beats brands like Prego and Ragu. The sauce is thick, with a strong tomato flavor and just the right amount of seasoning. It’s also affordable. If you want a good pasta sauce that doesn’t cost much, Wegmans is a safe bet.
11. H-E-B Creamy Peanut Butter
H-E-B’s creamy peanut butter is a Texas favorite. In blind taste tests, it sometimes beats Jif and Peter Pan. The flavor is nutty and smooth, and it spreads easily. It’s also less expensive than most name brands. If you live in Texas, H-E-B’s store brand is worth a try.
12. Sam’s Choice Thin & Crispy Pizza
Sam’s Choice, Walmart’s premium store brand, makes a thin and crispy pizza that surprises many people. In blind taste tests, it sometimes beats DiGiorno and California Pizza Kitchen. The crust is crisp, and the toppings are generous. It’s also cheaper than most frozen pizzas. If you want a quick dinner that tastes good, Sam’s Choice is a solid pick.
Why Blind Taste Tests Matter for Your Wallet
Blind taste tests show that price doesn’t always equal quality. Many store brands match or beat name brands in flavor and texture. This means you can save money without giving up the foods you love. Next time you shop, try a few store brands and see what you think. You might find a new favorite and keep more money in your pocket. For more on how store brands stack up, check out Consumer Reports and The Kitchn.
Have you tried any store brands that surprised you in a blind taste test? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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