Gut für Umwelt und Geldbeutel: Große Packung, kleiner Preis? Drei Spartipps für den Einkauf

Saving money and protecting the environment while shopping may sound like a good idea, but one should be cautious. Sometimes, buying large packs seems like a bargain, but the contents may be less than expected. According to consumer advocates, purchasing such packs often means buying a lot of air and possibly unnecessary packaging material.

Here are three tips to help you make better purchasing decisions: 1. Compare price and performance When buying detergents, pay attention to the information on the packaging. Bulk packs may not save you money, as they sometimes include additives like salts for filling. Consumer advocates suggest checking the number of washes indicated on the pack, which helps compare the price-to-performance ratio.

For food items, comparing unit prices, such as per kilogram, can help estimate savings based on pack sizes. 2. Big and cheap isn't always better Quality matters as much as price. Take time to compare the product's condition, origin, and packaging in the store, especially for food items. Buying a large pack may not always be practical if you cannot consume it within a few days, leading to waste.

The "Too good for the trash" initiative advises checking your actual needs before purchasing, particularly for perishable food items. Single households might find buying directly from the fresh food counter, market stalls, or unpackaged stores more economical, as they can take only what they need. For those cooking for guests and unsure about quantities, the consumer central's portion planner can provide average values for needed amounts.

3. Bend down to save money Sometimes, bending down or stretching can help you save money. Discounted products are often found at the bottom or top of the shelves, as regular-priced items tend to be at eye level. Premium-priced items are usually placed at eye level. Don't be quick to grab the first attractive deal you see. At promotion stands with large price tags, verify if it's truly a bargain or just overpriced branded goods.

Special stands with big signs can obstruct walkways and sometimes feature expensive branded items. For budget-conscious shoppers, keep an eye out for reduced-price items nearing their expiry dates.