Do you really know? Are budget food brands really worth the savings they offer?
Feb 26, 2026
They dig into huge price gaps between budget and standard supermarket ranges, with eye-popping examples like rice costs. They explain why many shoppers have switched to cheaper own-labels during the cost-of-living squeeze. They define what counts as budget versus mid-range and premium choices. They flag where budget lines often fall short, including quality, health and ethical concerns.
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Shocking Rice Price Example
- Which highlighted extreme price gaps between budget and premium rice during 2023 UK research.
- Asda Just Essentials rice was 52p per kg versus Asda Easy Cook at £1.80 and Uncle Ben's at £4.85, showing 246% and 833% differences respectively.
Supermarkets Use Own-Brand Tiers
- Not all own-brand products are budget; retailers offer tiers from value to premium within their own ranges.
- Tesco and Asda both sell finest, mid-range, and budget lines, and budget items often appear in basic packaging at the bottom shelf.
When Budget Brands Are And Aren't Good
- Budget staples like pasta, flour, sugar and salt generally perform well against major brands, so savings there are reasonable.
- But processed items, meat and fish often use additives, minced ingredients or lower welfare sourcing, reducing quality and ethical standards.