Walmart is known for its everyday low prices, but that doesn’t mean every item offers the best value for money. Unfortunately, some products are not a great value or a healthy option.
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From preservative-filled baking mixes to highly processed, prepackaged deli meats, here are 10 Walmart foods that are a waste of money.
Plus, see 14 other items to avoid at Walmart.
great value baking mix
“Some of the things that aren’t worth buying at Walmart are baking mixes that are just flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in the right proportions,” says Cynthia Hamilton, health and wellness coach at Yogi Times. says. “And these ingredients are much cheaper than the price of baking mixes. Also, these mixes may contain preservatives and hydrogenated fats. The price of his 40-ounce pack of baking mixes is is $4.18.”
You can make your own baking mix using a few simple ingredients and store it in an airtight container for use as needed.
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great value peanut butter
“Walmart’s Great Value Peanut Butter is not worth buying because it contains excessive sugar and hydrogenated fats that pose a threat to human health,” Hamilton said. “The cellulose added to butter affects the taste and texture of the butter. You can choose organic peanut butter or prepare it at home in a hygienic manner by adding healthy, fresh ingredients. can.”
organic produce
“Organic produce at Walmart isn’t necessarily of lower quality, it’s just that it’s cheaper at other retailers,” said David Bakke of Dollar Sanity. “Research has shown, and I know from personal experience, that you can get these items cheaply at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and even Aldi.”
pre-cut fruits and vegetables
Nora Clarke, an experienced chef, qualified nutritionist and editor of Boyd Hampers, says pre-cut produce is convenient, but it’s often more expensive than whole fruits and vegetables. he said.
“You’re essentially paying extra for chopping,” she says. “It’s more cost-effective to do it yourself.”
Pre-cut produce can be up to three times more expensive than whole produce.
specialty or exotic spices
“Walmart is a great place to buy everyday spices,” Clark said. “But unusual or special items can be expensive. You may find better deals at ethnic grocery stores or online.”
frozen chicken nuggets
“While these nuggets may seem like a convenient option, they are often made with lower-quality chicken parts,” said Andrei Vasilescu, co-founder and CEO of Don’t Pay Full. It’s packed with additives, preservatives, and excess sodium. Investing in high-quality chicken or making homemade nuggets can be a healthier and tastier choice. .”
prepackaged salad kits
“While they may be convenient, prepackaged salad kits are often expensive compared to the amount of vegetables you actually get,” Vasilescu says. “They also tend to come with dressings that are high in unhealthy fats and sugars. By choosing fresh, whole vegetables and making your own dressings, you can save money and provide a more nutritious meal. .”
single serve coffee pod
“Single-use coffee pods are convenient, but they can be more expensive than buying ground coffee in bulk,” Vasilescu says. “Additionally, pods are not environmentally friendly and often end up in landfills. You can save money and reduce waste by switching to reusable coffee filters or investing in a coffee grinder. .”
prepackaged deli meat
“Prepackaged deli meats are convenient for quick sandwiches, but they’re often highly processed and high in sodium, preservatives, and nitrates,” Vasilescu says. Choosing freshly sliced meat at the deli counter can be a healthier choice because you can control the quality and quantity of the ingredients. ”
meat and seafood
“Over the years, I’ve heard mixed reviews of Walmart products in this category,” said Thomas Paddock, consumer trends analyst, shopping expert, and founder of Learn Retail Arbitrage.
“While some will vouch for the affordable prices, others will find the quality to be hit or miss. From my own experience, local butchers and specialty shops offer fresher, more flavorful menu items. This is a classic case of you getting what you pay for.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Walmart foods that are a waste of money