Read unit prices on the shelf

The shelf price tells you what the package costs. The unit price tells you what the food costs, per ounce, pound or item. That's the number to compare.

How to use it

• Look for the unit price on the shelf tag, often in smaller print
• Make sure you compare the same unit (per ounce vs per pound)
• Bigger isn't always cheaper per unit, especially when smaller sizes are on sale
• Only buy bigger if you'll use it before it spoils

No unit price shown?

Use our unit price calculator: enter two prices and sizes and it tells you which is cheaper.

General information about food budgeting. Prices vary by store and region. The Nickels Budget isn't paid by any store or brand.