If you’ve ever found yourself standing in the supermarket aisle, squinting at price tags and wondering if you’re getting the best bang for your buck, you’re not alone. With the rising cost of living and grocery bills creeping ever higher, every dollar counts—especially in winter, when hearty meals and comfort food are on the menu.
But here’s some good news for savvy shoppers: ALDI has just been crowned Australia’s most affordable supermarket this winter, and the savings are real.
The consumer advocacy group CHOICE has done the legwork for us, comparing prices across 104 supermarkets in 27 locations nationwide.
Their latest quarterly survey, funded by the government, pitted ALDI against the big players—Coles, Woolworths, and IGA—using a basket of 14 everyday and seasonal grocery items.
The result? ALDI came out on top for nine of those products, making it the go-to for budget-conscious Australians.
So, what are these magical nine products where ALDI trumps the competition? Here’s the list you’ll want to keep handy for your next shop:
- Full cream milk
- Sanitarium Weetbix
- Cavendish bananas
- Strawberries
- Sour cream
- Drinking chocolate
- Vegetable stock
- Quick oat sachets
- Brown onions
Whether you’re making a classic winter porridge, a hearty stew, or just your morning cuppa, ALDI’s got you covered on these essentials. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a bargain on their breakfast Weetbix or a sweet deal on strawberries for dessert?
Of course, no supermarket is perfect. There are five items for which ALDI didn’t take the gold medal.
Woolworths edged out ALDI on chicken breast fillets and butternut pumpkin, while IGA offered the cheapest carrots and onions.
Coles, meanwhile, scored the lowest price on Royal Gala apples.
This shows that a bit of flexibility—and a willingness to shop around—can help you stretch your grocery budget even further.
CHOICE’s chief executive officer, Ashley de Silva, explained that this year’s survey included more fresh produce and a wider variety of products, responding to feedback from everyday shoppers like you.
The aim? Make the comparison more relevant and seasonal so you can make informed decisions that suit your family’s needs.
CHOICE’s fieldworkers considered ingredient lists, country of origin, and packaging similarities to ensure fairness. If a product was unavailable, they picked the closest alternative, just like you would if your favourite brand was out of stock.
The survey didn’t just stop at naming winners and losers. CHOICE also shared three top tips to help you save, no matter where you shop:
1. Check the unit pricing
Don’t just look at the sticker price—compare the cost per 100g, litre, or item. All supermarkets are legally required to display this information in-store and online. It’s the easiest way to spot the real bargains.
2. Shop around
Loyalty is great, but your wallet might thank you for mixing things up. Switching between supermarkets and chasing specials can lead to significant savings over time. If you can, consider splitting your shop between stores to take advantage of the best deals.
3. Change your routine
Flexibility is key. Swap expensive cuts of meat for cheaper alternatives, try frozen fruit and veg (especially when your favourites are out of season), and don’t shy away from ‘ugly’ produce—it tastes just as good!
House brand products are also worth a try; CHOICE’s testing often finds they outperform pricier options.
We’d love to hear from you. Have you noticed a difference in your grocery bill when shopping at ALDI or mixing up your supermarket routine? Do you have any tried-and-true tips for saving on your weekly shop? Let us know in the comments below.
Also read: ‘Screaming, crying’: ALDI just axed this crowd-favourite sweet treat
It’s only cheap if your prepared to take whatever they have which is usually their own brand so if you want something specific your screwed and have to go elsewhere
Fair enough, Margaret! I know some people who aren’t big fans of home/shop brands.