Asda’s new budget range, Just Essentials, has hit the headlines this week with its bright yellow packaging.
Some have argued the supermarket giant is “shaming” less affluent customers, with the new fluorescent packaging arguably drawing attention to the fact that it is a budget range.
One shopper said those on a lower income would have a “basket full of poverty markers”, The Sun reported.
Asda dismissed claims the chain was attempting to “embarrass poorer families”.
The Northern Echo, however, wanted to see what bargains are to be had and if we would purchase any of these ourselves, as the cost-of-living crisis is affecting everyone.
Here are 15 items we saw in Asda’s Just Essentials range that cost under £1.
- White bread is a staple in any kitchen. This loaf is 800g and only costs 39p in the Just Essentials range.
2. To go with the white bread, here's some soft spread, perfect for sandwiches and very cheap and cheerful, it's also vegan and just 83p for a 500g tub.
3. Potatoes are a cupboard staple. Versatile and tasty, these white potatoes could be used in curries, salads or stews. This is the most expensive item under £1 but we still thought it was great value.
4. If you're having a barbeque in this hot weather, these pork sausages could make perfect hot dogs. In the colder weather, they could be served with mash or in a casserole. At just 96p for 454g, it's a great deal.
5. If there is one cupboard staple that cannot be disputed, it's baked beans. Costing just 25p per 410g tin, this purchase is a no-brainer whether you're on a tight budget or not.
6. If you don't have time to cook one evening, this minced beef and onion pie could be a life-saver for you. The 150g pie only costs 74p.
7. Cooking in this hot weather can be a chore, however, this frozen cheese and tomato pizza could be a quick and easy solution, and it's only 66p for a 314g pizza.
8. Pasta is always a store cupboard essential and this pack of spaghetti is only 23p for 500g of pasta, and no one should turn their nose up at that.
9. The perfect accompaniment for the spaghetti. This jar of bolognese sause is only 39 for 440g, perfect if you're trying to feed a family on a budget.
10. One for the dairy-lovers, this soft cheese costs only 80p for 300g. Spread it on toast, use for baking or stir a dollop into a creamy pasta sauce, this will make it go further and give it a richer taste.
11. An apple a day keeps the doctor away, and at only 65p for a bag of five, it's easy to. This bag contains 500g and it's perfect for lunch boxes. Jazz them up by using them in coleslaw, waldorf salad or fruit salad in this hot weather.
12. Another addition to your five a day is oranges. This bag of five costs just 60p. Use them in fruit salads, pack lunches, add them to smoothies, or squeeze them so you can have fresh orange juice as a refreshing drink during this heatwave.
13. A healthier alternative to the white bread option, this wholemeal loaf contains plenty of fibre and costs just 39p for 800g. If you find yourself often throwing away the last half of the loaf, pop those slices in the freezer so they don't go to waste.
14. Rice is one of the most versatile foods there is. This 1kg bag of long grain rice is only 45p and be used to accompany countless dishes including; Indian curries, Caribbean jerk chicken, stir fry, or for rice salds in this hot weather.
15. Add this cooking bacon to a soup, stew or sauce to add to the rich savoury flavour. This can also add a source of protein to your dish. Costing just 75p for 500g, it's hard to resist adding the extra umami to your favourite dinner.
Have you tried the new Just Essentials range from Asda? Let us know what you thought of it.
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