Ever walked out of the grocery store wondering how you just spent $100 on a handful of items? You’re not alone. Some products carry shocking markups that have you paying way more than you should.
Whether it’s convenience, packaging, or just because they can, grocery stores love sneaking in extra dollars where you least expect them. Here’s a countdown of the 15 worst offenders.
15. Bottled Water
That fancy label and sleek bottle don’t change the fact that this is just… water. The markup on bottled water can be as high as 4,000%, which is wild when you consider that tap water is basically free. If you’re worried about quality, invest in a filter and save yourself a small fortune.
14. Pre-Cut Fruits and Veggies
Sure, it’s nice to have someone else do the chopping, but that convenience comes with a hefty price tag. Pre-cut produce can cost double or even triple compared to buying whole fruits and veggies. Plus, they don’t stay fresh for long, so you’re paying extra for something that might get mushy in a day.
13. Salad Kits
Bagged salads are convenient, but you’re essentially paying extra for someone to mix lettuce, croutons, and dressing for you. A DIY version using a head of lettuce and some pantry staples will save you money—and probably taste better too.
12. Spices
A tiny jar of cinnamon shouldn’t cost as much as a latte, but here we are. Grocery store spices often come with a 100-200% markup. Pro tip: Buy spices in bulk from international markets or online for a fraction of the price.
11. Cereal
Ever notice how a box of cereal feels lighter every year while the price somehow goes up? That’s no coincidence. Cereal brands know we’re loyal to our favorites, so they keep raising prices. A better bet? Store brands or buying in bulk.
10. Shredded Cheese
A block of cheese and a grater cost significantly less than that bag of pre-shredded goodness. Not to mention, pre-shredded cheese is often coated in anti-caking agents that affect the texture when melted. Grate your own and save some cash.
9. Brand-Name Snacks
Chips, cookies, and crackers from big-name brands can be marked up 40% or more. Store brands usually taste just as good, if not better, and can save you a few bucks. Plus, who’s going to know the difference once they’re out of the bag?
8. Organic Produce
Not all organic foods are overpriced, but certain items—especially those with a low risk of pesticide contamination—don’t justify the added cost. Check the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists to see which organic items are actually worth splurging on.
7. Energy Bars
They’re marketed as a quick, healthy snack, but the price per bar is often absurd. A box of granola, some nuts, and a little honey can go a long way toward making your own for a fraction of the cost.
6. Cold-Pressed Juices
Yes, they’re tasty and packed with vitamins, but they’re also wildly expensive. Some grocery stores charge $5-$10 for a single bottle when you could buy a whole bag of oranges or apples for the same price.
5. Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chickens seem like a deal, but they’re often smaller than raw whole chickens and can cost twice as much per pound. Cooking your own takes a little extra time, but your wallet (and taste buds) will thank you.
4. Frozen Meals
That quick, microwave-friendly dinner is anything but budget-friendly. Frozen meals are significantly more expensive than making the same dish from scratch, and they’re often loaded with preservatives and sodium.
3. Name-Brand Coffee
If you’re buying ground coffee from a major brand, you’re likely overpaying. Smaller roasters and store brands often offer better quality for less. And if you really want to save, buy whole beans and grind them yourself.
Read More: 20 Grocery Items That Are Totally Overpriced (and How to Avoid Them)
2. Pre-Made Guacamole and Hummus
These dips are easy to make, yet grocery stores charge a premium for the pre-made versions. A couple of avocados or a can of chickpeas will set you back way less than that tiny container of guac or hummus.
Read More: 30 Genius Ways to Stretch Your Grocery Budget
1. Deli Meats
Sliced turkey or ham from the deli counter might seem reasonable, but pound for pound, it’s often one of the most marked-up items in the store. Buying a whole roast or a larger cut and slicing it yourself can save a ton over time.
Read More: The 30 Most Shockingly Overpriced Grocery Stores in the World