Most of us grew up thinking canned goods were the smart, thrifty choice. And often, they are. But finance expert Melanie Musson of Clearsurance.com says a few popular canned items are actually costing shoppers more than they should: in money, flavor, or both.
Here are three canned foods worth skipping on your next grocery run.
Carrots
You might assume the canned version of a vegetable is always the cheaper option. Not so with carrots, according to Musson. “In most instances, canned carrots cost more than fresh or frozen carrots,” she said. “A frugal person will buy fresh or frozen carrots to save money.”
The numbers back her up. At Ralphs, the Kroger brand of canned carrots runs $1.29 per can and a can holds roughly three carrots’ worth. Buying those same three carrots fresh at the same store costs about 66 cents. That is nearly half the price for a better product.
Peaches
Canned peaches do last longer on the shelf. But Musson says that convenience comes at a cost you might not expect: the flavor. “Canned peaches often have little flavor,” she explained. “Most people can buy fresh peaches that taste better and cost less than canned peaches.”
Like carrots, a single can is roughly equivalent to three fresh peaches. And while pricing can vary by store and season, Musson’s point about taste stands on its own. Some things just are not worth canning.
Chicken
Canned chicken has its uses; Musson specifically mentions backcountry camping or situations where refrigeration is not an option. But for everyday cooking? She says it is not the frugal choice most people assume.
“Canned meat has its place for backcountry backpacking trips and other situations with no refrigeration,” she said. “But canned chicken isn’t something a frugal person would buy for everyday use. Instead, they buy Costco or Sam’s Club chicken. It’s less expensive per ounce, and most would agree that it tastes better.”
The price comparison is close but telling. At Ralphs, one can of chicken costs $2.29, which works out to 46 cents per ounce. At Costco, 18 pounds of chicken breasts, thighs, and tenders runs $129.99; that is 45 cents per ounce. The cost is nearly identical, but the Costco option gives you far more variety and the ability to freeze portions for later.
The bottom line: not every can is a bargain. When you are watching your grocery budget, it pays to compare, because fresh or frozen often wins on both price and flavor.
Note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on your location.
