Question about dollar store spices: are they actually worth it or just filler?

So I tried making chili last week with all dollar store ingredients, including their generic chili powder and cumin. The flavor was fine, but I felt like I needed to use twice as much as the name brand stuff to get any kick. I've seen some folks swear by dollar store spices for budget meals, but others say they're just salt and cornstarch. Has anyone else noticed a big difference in potency between dollar store spices and regular grocery store ones, or is it all in my head?

2 comments

2 Comments

clairebaker18d ago

Yeah @river_jones totally right, I used to think they were all fine but then I tried their garlic powder and it was basically dust.

river_jones18d agoMost Upvoted

Have you tried their garlic powder yet? That was the one that convinced me dollar store spices are hit or miss. Most of them are just fine for everyday cooking, but you definitely need to double up on the chili powder.