If you are European or you have spent time traveling in Europe, then you probably know Aldi. Like any grocery store, however, some items are a steal-of-a-deal, and others that go for more than they’re worth. We’ve done some of the work for you so that you can know what to look for and what to avoid the next time you’re shopping here.
The Best and Worst Deals at Aldi
Aldi is a budget-friendly German grocery store that has gained immense popularity recently due to its affordable prices and high-quality products. While many people swear by Aldi for all their grocery needs, it’s important to know which deals to buy and which ones to skip. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best and worst deals at Aldi.
The Best Deals
1. Fresh produce
Aldi’s produce section is an excellent place to find high-quality fruits and vegetables at unbeatable prices.
2. Meat
Aldi’s meat deals are also tough to beat – you can score top-quality meat cuts at significantly lower prices than you will find at other grocery stores.
3. Dairy
Aldi’s dairy section provides a variety of fresh cheese, milk, yogurt, and butter at affordable prices. While that sounds great, Milk from Alid may not be the cheapest choice. See why in our “Worst Deal” section below.
4. Eggs
Aldi sells eggs for unbeatable prices as compared to other grocery stores, making them the perfect place for all your egg needs.
5. Coffee
If you are a coffee lover, Aldi is your go-to place, as they have various coffee blends available at affordable prices.
6. Bread
Aldi’s bakery section offers a variety of freshly baked bread, including sourdough, rye, and multi-grain at unbeatable prices.
7. Frozen Foods
These frozen items often go on sale, and you’ll find different options available, including pizzas, vegetables, meals, and desserts.
8. Cereal
Aldi sells numerous cereal brands at a lower rate than its competitors.
9. Chocolate
Aldi has premium chocolates that cost a lot less than other grocery stores.
10. Wine
Aldi is also an excellent option for wine lovers who don’t have to spend a lot on a good bottle of wine.
11. Household essentials
Aldi sells various household essentials that include tissues, toilet paper, and other cleaning supplies at a lower rate than its competitors.
12. Almond Butter
Aldi sells their private label brand of almond butter for a great price, which is incredibly tasty.
13. Chips
Aldi has low-cost chips that are perfect for a movie night snack.
14. Chocolate Chips
Aldi carries bags of chocolate chips that are good quality and favorable prices.
15. Baby wipes
Aldi offers great prices for a large amount of baby wipes for your little one.
16. Canned beans
Aldi offers a can of beans that is often comparable in price to their dry bean counterparts.
17. Toilet paper
Aldi offers a sustainable option for toilet paper at a great price.
18. Snack bars
Aldi carries a variety of snack bars such as granola bars and protein bars that won’t break the bank.
19. Snack mix
Aldi has a fantastic snack mix that’s a great item for on-the-go.
20. Salad kits
Aldi’s salad kits are fresh and inexpensive, and make it easier for people to save some effort while being healthy.
The Worst Deals
1. Spices
Aldi’s spices can often be more expensive than a bulk purchase of spices from another grocery store or wholesale shop.
2. Baking ingredients
Aldi’s baking ingredients can be cheaper depending on regular supermarkets’ prices.
3. Organic produce
While Aldi has some excellent deals on fresh produce, their organic produce is often more expensive than other grocery chain stores.
4. Condiments
Aldi’s condiments can vary in price and sometimes end up more expensive.
5. Specialty items
If you are looking for a high-end, specialty item, it’s better off to shop at other grocery stores.
6. Supplements
Aldi’s supplement prices are sometimes comparable to other discount retailers but could cost more than purchasing directly from a brand or specialty store.
7. Candles
Aldi’s candle prices might not be truly affordable if compared to Amazon pricing for candles.
8. Beverages
Aldi’s beverage choices can be extensive, but they might not be the optimal choice when compared to large chain retailers such as Walmart or Target.
9. Gluten-free bread
Aldi’s gluten-free bread prices can often be more expensive than other available gluten-free options.
10. Snack-size fruit
While Aldi carries a good variety of fruit, the snack-size fruit packages can be more expensive than purchasing the fruit loose.
11. Chocolate-covered nuts
Aldi’s chocolate-covered nuts are great, but they might not be a compatible bargain if compared to purchasing in bulk at a big box store.
12. Pre-made meals
Aldi’s pre-made meals can be more expensive than purchasing fresh ingredients in other grocery stores.
13. Oats
Aldi’s oat prices can be more expensive if compared to your local grocery store or wholesale shopping.
14. Laundry detergent
Aldi’s laundry detergent prices can be a bit more expensive, and other large box retailers may offer more affordable options at the same quality.
15. Pet food
Aldi’s pet food prices might not be the cheapest in comparison to other specialty pet stores or sellers.
16. Nuts
Aldi offers a variety of nuts, but their bulk prices might be more expensive than other wholesale stores.
17. Tissues
While Aldi’s tissue can be affordable, it’s not necessarily the best option in comparison to regular grocers.
18. Freezer bags
Aldi’s freezer bags can be more expensive than purchasing a box of bags in bulk from other retailers.
19. Energy drinks
Aldi’s energy drink prices can be more than that available in other grocery chain stores.
20. Milk
Milk at Aldi may or may not be the cheapest you can find. You might want to check prices in your area before always going to Aldi. According to blogger Frugal Minded Mom, prices for milk can vary state to state. Some states, like Florida, have no set minimums on milk. She found that her local Aldi sells milk for as much as $3.49, whereas another store roughly 30 minutes away sells it for $2.44.
Always Check Your Options
Remember, you can find many amazing deals at Aldi for a broad range of products. Still, you should be mindful of prices and take note of other available pricing opportunities, and if you’re not sure, compare it to other grocery chain stores before making a purchase. With this list, you are better equipped to make the right choices for your budget.