Take your pick: Brand name vs. Generic

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WPSD Reporters

Story Created: Tue Jul 10, 2012 7:40 AM

Story Updated: Tue Jul 10, 2012 8:24 AM

The Local 6 morning crew tried out generic and brand name cereal, pasta, water, granola bars, mac and cheese, cookies and soda.

The results came out pretty even. Marissa, Mike and Johnette chose the generic brand as the better tasting about 50 percent of the time.

According to a survey by the Private Label Manufacturer's Association, an organization that represents makers of store brand goods,  close to 80% of grocery shoppers say the generic brands they buy are as good as, if not better than, national brand products.

The ultimate selling point comes down to the cash register. According to Consumer Report Magazine, the average store-brand food costs 27% less than its big-name counter part.

The Private Label Manufacturer's Association says you can save 30% per shopping trip buying store brands. Buying generic soda instead of coke or pepsi can save you between 50% and 60%.

When it comes to your daily breakfast or treats, picking up generic cereal and ice cream could save you more than 30%. You can also save about 23% on generic brand frozen pizza and more than 25% on dog food by going generic.

If you are an online shopper...The same savings apply on the web. 24-hour Claritin on drugstore.com would cost you $3 for 45 tablets. Choosing the generic version will cost you a dollar less for 120 tablets.