Aldi is one of those stores where it’s easy to walk in for a few groceries and leave with a cart full of things you didn’t plan to buy. With low prices, store-brand alternatives, and weekly specials, something usually catches your attention.
But a cheap price doesn’t always mean you’re getting a good deal. Some products don’t hold up as well as you’d expect, while others may spoil before you get a chance to use them. If you end up throwing something away or buying a replacement, those savings disappear fast.
Aldi has plenty of groceries worth buying, but shoppers have also pointed out a few items that consistently disappoint. Here are nine worth thinking twice about before adding them to your cart.
Fresh chicken breasts
Aldi’s packaged chicken breasts can sometimes be tough and rubbery or require more trimming than expected. If you’re removing a lot of fat or dealing with poor-quality cuts, that lower price per pound may not be worth it.
Fresh produce
Aldi has great prices on fruits and vegetables, but some items, especially berries and mushrooms, can spoil faster than expected. Check everything carefully before buying, especially if you need your produce to last several days.
Prepackaged deli meat
Aldi’s prepackaged deli meats can be overly wet or have a less appealing texture than freshly sliced options. Without a deli counter, you’re also limited to predetermined package sizes instead of buying exactly what you need.
Bagged onions
Buying onions in bulk might seem like a smart way to save, but one spoiled onion can quickly affect the rest of the bag. If you only need a few for the week, purchasing them individually elsewhere may help you avoid unnecessary food waste.
Hard taco shells
Aldi’s hard taco shells can be brittle and crumbly, making them hard to fill without breaking. Spending a little more on sturdier shells or choosing soft tortillas may save you some frustration on taco night.
Frozen fish sticks
Some frozen fish sticks have more breading than actual fish, which makes the low price less appealing. Compare the ingredients and serving sizes before buying, since a slightly more expensive option may give you more fish for your money.
Shredded cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking ingredients that can affect how smoothly it melts, and you’re paying extra for the convenience. Aldi’s block cheeses are worth comparing because grating your own can give you better results and potentially save money.
Premade soups
Some of Aldi’s premade soups can be thin, overly creamy, or bland, leaving you with a disappointing meal. A simple homemade soup or a different canned variety may offer better value, especially if you’re feeding more than one person.
Store-brand snack chips
Aldi’s store-brand chips are affordable, but certain varieties can be overly salty, unevenly seasoned, or less flavorful than their name-brand counterparts. A cheaper bag isn’t necessarily a better deal if you don’t enjoy eating it.
