I Switched To Local Grocery Household Brands Because I Can’t Afford Premium Brands Due To Inflation

It started late last year, when I realised that my grocery budget was shrinking in value because I could no longer afford the same number of things with the budget I usually set. 

I used to be able to buy meat, sauces, toiletries, and vegetables with my monthly budget, but the prices of household items seemed to all go up at the same time. Some months I had to opt for no sauces and scrimp on less meat.  

I decided to switch to local household grocery brands that the supermarkets offered. Some of the family members complained that the food did not taste as delicious and was bland. But I ignored them because I oversaw household expenses.

We swapped out premium toilet paper with 2 ply household brands, and the same was for tissue papers, as well as cheaper sauces, and vegetables. I used to buy organic vegetables because they were easier to clean and consume but now, I buy normal ones. It takes slightly longer to wash and clean them, but they work just fine. 

As for meats, I go for frozen meat instead of fresh meat as they cost cheaper in bulk. I also go for the cheapest sauces ones on the rack. 

I believe this inflationary situation should be temporary, but I am saving for next year’s grocery budget, so that I can have some extra cash to buy some special items, especially to prepare for the festive season. I must save in advance for larger purchases as things are really expensive these days. 

This article is part of TSS Confessions, a weekly column where we delve into personal finance topics that are unscripted and genuine real accounts from people.