Should you buy generic or name brand orange juice?

If you’re splurging on orange juice – opt for the generic brand...

The same goes for milk. Not only do they cost less, blind tests have found that they taste better too. That’s because generic or store brands are usually produced regionally, which means there is less processing and transportation involved. Here are some other good generic buys:

• Cereal: The ingredients are pretty much the same. If your kids like the popular kind, go ahead and buy a box – and refill it with generic.

• Basic ingredients: Experts say it’s virtually impossible to determine the difference between name brand and store items such as sugar, salt, flour and spices.

• Infant formula: The Infant Formula Act, passed in 1980, guarantees that all formulas are identical in nutrition. There may be subtle differences in taste and texture with some store brands – but they’re significantly less expensive and just as good for baby.