Canned foods are excellent. They’re easy to store, last long, and are great for quick meals. However, not all canned goods are good value. Sometimes, making your own or using fresh ingredients can save you money and improve your meals.

Some canned items are both cheap and good. This article is about canned goods that are not worth the cost. Let’s look at canned goods you should think twice about buying.

Tomato sauce

Canned tomato sauce is a good buy, especially if you’re short on time. But it’s expensive for the amount you get, especially for premium brands. 

Making your tomato sauce is cheaper and more accessible. Just blend fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices, and you’re done. You get a delicious homemade sauce without the additives and salt that are often in canned tomato sauce. 

Truffles

Truffles are a luxury food item known for their aroma and rich flavor.  

Truffles are expensive, so it’s hard to justify buying canned ones when they’re not as good as fresh. Suppose you want to enjoy truffles in their purest form, investing in fresh truffles or exploring alternatives like truffle oil or salt. These options taste similar but cost less. 

Peaches

When in season, fresh peaches are often cheaper than canned ones. They are also better than canned ones. They have more texture, taste, and nutrition. Store them right, and they’ll last longer.

To be healthy, look for peaches packed in juice, not syrup. Fresh peaches are the best value.

Baked beans

Baked beans from scratch are cheaper, and you can control the flavor and texture. Dried beans are the most affordable. They cost just a fraction of the price of a can. A bag of dried beans can make several servings and let you add your seasoning. 

Chicken

Imagine reaching for a can of chicken, hoping for a quick, tasty protein. It’s dry and bland. 

Fresh chicken can be cooked with herbs and veggies, which makes the meat taste better. This method provides a healthier, natural meal without excess sodium or preservatives.

Chili

Making chili from scratch improves taste and is also cheaper. The ingredients are inexpensive. You can make a large batch to enjoy over several meals or freeze for later. Canned chili is easy, but homemade chili is better.