8 Things You Never Knew About Shopping at ALDI + $100 ALDI Giveaway
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Aldi buffet meat and cheese

8 Things You Never Knew About Shopping at ALDI + $100 ALDI Giveaway

Who couldn’t use $100 to use toward grocery shopping this week? Enter to win a $100 Aldi gift card and find out 8 things you never knew about shopping at ALDI.

 

produce aldi

Thank you ALDI for sponsoring this post! All opinions are my own.

Long ago (30 years ago), in a city far, far away (Peoria, IL), there was a girl who loved to go to the grocery store with her mom. Growing up in a family of 6, grocery runs to the store nearest to our neighborhood were a common occurrence. But once in a while, we headed to the other side of town to a sleepy little store called ALDI. I loved ALDI for one reason and one reason only.

We bagged our own groceries.

Looking back, I realize that Mom loved ALDI because of the insanely low prices. Feeding a family of six was no cheap feat. However, back then, perishable items like produce, dairy and meat were not available. So Mom had to do double duty and go to two stores to complete her shopping.

Fast forward a few (ahem) years to present day.

Now living in Dallas, I have grocery stores on every corner. Literally. There are NINE stores within a 4-mile radius of my home. NINE. Why then do I travel just a few more miles to my local ALDI store? To bag my own groceries, yes. But, let me tell you a few more reasons why.

Cheese taste test

  1. You can save up to 50% on your grocery bill.

ALDI does price comparison shopping regularly of comparable products sold at leading national competitor stores and has found that toe to toe, ALDI brand products are significantly less expensive than other national competitor brands.

 

  1. Quality of ALDI Brand Products

I tasted close to 50 ALDI exclusive brand products and, as an experienced taste tester, let me assure you it’s difficult to tell the difference. You can see by my score card that I was often wrong. The quality of these products are ON POINT.

 

Signage Aldi and Not

 

3. The SimplyNature line

This line is just simple food made with only honest ingredients and without artificial colors, flavors or unnecessary enhancers. In 2015, ALDI announced it removed certified synthetic colors, partially hydrogenated oils (a source of trans fats) and added MSG from all of their exclusive brand food products. The process will be complete before 2018.

 

protein balls-coffee

 

  1. ALDI has its own line of organic products

You’ll find impressive selections of fresh and organic meat and produce, like bananas, tomatoes, kale and avocados.  Their SimplyNature Organic 100% Grass Fed Ground Beef in 1 pound packages is one of their Dietitian Picks and contains no added antibiotics, hormones or animal by-products. Their organic line stands side by side any other organic line, but for a fraction of the cost. 

 

  1. ALDI created a line of gluten-free products specifically based on consumer feedback

While I don’t follow a GF diet, I can tell you that from a taste perspective, these products are spot on. I often hear that GF products just don’t taste good. I was surprised and impressed with the flavor profiles of each of the liveGfree products I tasted.

 

  1. Imported specialty items from around the world.

Imagine my delight when I found German chocolates and European cheeses at my fingertips! As someone who appreciates handcrafted foods from other countries, this was a find that made me very happy. As a result, I foresee many quick cheese displays and dessert trays in my future.

wine and cheese

 

  1. Award Winning Wines

If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my tenure in this business, it’s to take a wine recommendation from someone who knows about wine. Liz Ruggles, the ALDI Director of PR tipped me off to one of the most buttery tasting Chardonnays I’ve ever had. The Tangled Vines Chardonnay will appear at all upcoming holiday parties and perhaps in a few gift and goody bags this year. Plus, all ALDI wines are offered at rock-bottom prices. Thanks, Liz!

 Wine display in store

 

  1. ALDI caters to babies!

Ok, so this doesn’t pertain to me anymore, but WOW do I wish I had this available when my son was young. From baby formula, food pouches and snacks to diapers, wipes and washes, the Little Journey line of baby products has been extremely well received and has even won awards. And, as any parent can attest, quality products at reasonable prices are key when it comes to budgeting for baby!

 

Make your next trip to ALDI awesome by entering for a chance to win a $100 ALDI Gift Card here–just in time for your Thanksgiving shopping!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

48 Comments
  • Ginger
    Posted at 06:56h, 17 November

    I wasn’t sure about Aldi at first,but now appreciate their prices and have found some favorites. Their chocolate caramels are delicious!

  • Denise L
    Posted at 10:44h, 17 November

    Their aged white cheddar cheese is phenomenal and a great bargain!

  • Shahzadi
    Posted at 11:28h, 17 November

    I didn’t know they did the simplynatural line! Very informative piece. Thanks

  • Emily Holdorf
    Posted at 11:35h, 17 November

    Great post! Loving all these RDs showing love for Aldi! Such a great place to shop 🙂

  • Lindsey Pine
    Posted at 12:38h, 17 November

    fantastic pictures of all of the products! wish there was an Aldi close to me!

  • Katie Cavuto
    Posted at 12:54h, 17 November

    I love ALDI! Great information and that’s such a nice giveaway — $100 will go a longgg way at ALDI!

  • Sarah @ BucketListTummy
    Posted at 14:00h, 17 November

    I Love Aldi! They make grocery shopping so fun and affordable!

  • Amy Gorin
    Posted at 14:43h, 17 November

    This is so fun! I love ALDI!

  • Elizabeth Shaw
    Posted at 17:04h, 17 November

    I love that I got to experience this with you! I had a blast and I think you forgot to put in the fabulous cheese whiz photo! I’m not entering to win but just sharing my joy to have had such a wonderful time twice this year with you! You rock Robin!

  • Elena
    Posted at 18:32h, 17 November

    My favorite Aldi product is the frozen apple strudel

  • Christy Brissette
    Posted at 18:48h, 17 November

    Great post. I love Aldi! Especially their gluten-free crackers and freeze dried strawberries!

  • Kaleigh @ Lively Table
    Posted at 18:58h, 17 November

    All the cheese!! I love ALDI and shopped there when I lived in Dallas, but no we’re out in west Texas where there isn’t one. Once in grad school, I went and did the shopping for our class project of serving a ehart healthy meal to the PA students, so I went to ALDI so our budget would go further. It wasnt until checkout that I realized they didn’t take credit cards (which is what the school gave me). I had to go to another store and spent almost double what I would have at ALDI!

    • Robin
      Posted at 17:03h, 18 November

      Kaleigh–UGGHHHH!!! Know it’s not helpful today, but they DO take credit cards now! Didn’t realize you lived in Dallas. Do you ever come back?

  • Chrissy @ Snacking in Sneakers
    Posted at 19:05h, 17 November

    I LOVE Aldi! They’re so much more inexpensive than the regular grocery store and have a pretty good selection of products. I love the cranberry cheddar cheese they have out in stores right now!

    • Robin
      Posted at 17:01h, 18 November

      Cranberry cheddar? OHHHH!! I’m going to have to look at my store for that one–I’m sure it’s seasonal, so I’d better go now!

  • Jenny Shea Rawn
    Posted at 19:08h, 17 November

    I haven’t been to Aldi in many, many years and clearly I need to revisit it, as it looks like it’s stepped up its food game tremendously. Love that they have an organic line and a baby line. Ohhh and that wine + cheese…yes, please. PS loving the new site.

  • Jodi Danen
    Posted at 19:55h, 17 November

    I have recently revisited Aldi – the first time since I had kids old enought to eat me out of house and home. Wow. I got bags full of groceries for well under $100. I am sold. Love your post!

  • Jessica @ Nutritioulicious
    Posted at 20:10h, 17 November

    Wish we had an ALDI close to use. They have so many healthy and budget friendly items!

  • Lauren Harris-Pincus
    Posted at 21:17h, 17 November

    Wow- I really need to find an ALDI. All of this looks amazing! And I always bag my own groceries anyway 🙂

  • Allyson Krause
    Posted at 21:44h, 17 November

    I love how ALDI is eliminating the excuse of “you can’t eat healthy on a budget”! They offer delicious and nutritious food items at a great price that is affordable for everyone.

    • Robin
      Posted at 17:00h, 18 November

      I agree 100%, Allyson. The produce prices alone! I’m not going to lie–I also love the center of the store specials!

  • Shannon @ KISS in the Kitchen
    Posted at 22:20h, 17 November

    Wow, I learned so much about ALDI! Especially happy about the wine :).

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:59h, 18 November

      SHannon, do you guys have ALDI in SA? Check it out!!

  • Charlene Pors
    Posted at 22:23h, 17 November

    I wish we had an ALDI around here! Look at that cheese! and wine! Looks amazing

  • Sylvia
    Posted at 22:31h, 17 November

    Great points. I love Aldo and feel like I get double the amount of food when I shop there.

  • Katie zabel
    Posted at 00:08h, 18 November

    Hi there! I enjoyed reading your blog and loved the tip on Aldi wine! I especially liked how you mentioned they have their own line of GF products as I have a student with a gluten allergy and many friends Who’ve made that a life style choice! Looks like I know where to go for Christmas gifts!

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:58h, 18 November

      Katie-you will find so many things for your GF friends and family! Great prices for gifts, too. Thanks for stoppin gby!

  • Ashley @ The Small Town Foodie
    Posted at 06:43h, 18 November

    Yesss Aldi is the best! I’ve been shopping there since I started doing my own grocery shopping. A lot of people don’t understand my obsession… I’m so glad you do! Haha

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:57h, 18 November

      Ashley, I’m impressed! You are an ALDI lifer for sure!

  • Nazima
    Posted at 08:43h, 18 November

    This post is making me wish there was an Aldi in Canada!

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:56h, 18 November

      Right? They are expanding by leaps and bounds–hopefully you will get an Aldi in Canada!

  • Roxana
    Posted at 09:53h, 18 November

    I love Aldi. Lots of nutritious choices. Great post.

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:56h, 18 November

      Thanks for stopping by, Roxana!

  • Kara @ Byte Sized Nutrition
    Posted at 13:49h, 18 November

    I. LOVE. ALDI. I am always amazed that I can walk out of there with a full cart of food for a fraction of what it would cost at other grocery stores. And you’re right.. the Aldi brand foods taste pretty much identical to popular brand-name items. (In fact, I’m snacking on their “Triscuits” with their “Laughing Cow” cheese as I type this!)

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:56h, 18 November

      Kara, I think it’s a little hidden gem in many, many cities! They are truly committed to their brand!

  • Kara @ Byte Sized Nutrition
    Posted at 13:53h, 18 November

    Oh and I’m glad you mentioned about the wine because that’s something I’ve been wanting to try from there but didn’t know how it would be!

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:54h, 18 November

      I can HIGHLY recommend. 🙂

  • EA Stewart
    Posted at 15:51h, 18 November

    Great post Robin! I just learned from Liz that there is an Aldi in San Diego now. It’s not by my house, but not too far from where my son has batting practice, so next time I take him, I’ll be checking Aldi out for sure! I do have to say, since you live in Dallas, that after moving away 11 years ago, I still miss Central Market 🙂

    • Robin
      Posted at 16:54h, 18 November

      EA, you’ll have to check it out–I think you’ll be impressed with all that it has to offer. I know I was! I understand you missing CM. 🙂

  • Lara Clevenger
    Posted at 18:22h, 18 November

    I love Aldis! I shop there every week now that one opened up close to me.

  • Katie
    Posted at 19:11h, 18 November

    I’m just wondering when we are going to get Aldi in my neck of the woods!

  • Anne N.
    Posted at 23:52h, 18 November

    I love going to Aldi. I’m so excited one will be opening up closer to me early next year. I love all the kids foods they have in smaller packages that are great for lunches.

  • Erin Hendrickson
    Posted at 02:37h, 21 November

    Hi Robin! About a year ago, I purchased Aldi Havarti cheese that had a flavor profile resembling that of old plastic. I appreciate the changes made and the marketing campaign to accompany them! I’ll have to pay them another visit! Great read!

    • Robin
      Posted at 08:26h, 21 November

      Hi Erin-yikes! That’s not good. Glad you are willing to give them another chance. Happy Thanksgiving.

  • manda overturf
    Posted at 13:58h, 21 November

    I like the cheese and speciality international products.

  • Nathan Shank
    Posted at 14:48h, 21 November

    My wife and I like Aldi’s 12 grain bread

  • Heather S
    Posted at 10:29h, 22 November

    I love the specially selected gouda cheese bites! YUM 🙂

    • Robin
      Posted at 15:39h, 28 November

      I am addicted to those too! Have you tried the Emmenthaler cheese bites?