what an interesting subject! Growing up i was none of the few at school who did not have labelled clothing or accessories, and i still don't. About the only thing I buy that is brand name is Coke (or Diet Coke actually!). I CANNOT stand the budget stuff out there. Budget lemonade etc is fine, just not coke!! My ex and I used to regularly have disagreements about the pantry incl the cat food- I wasn't allowed to buy the cheap cat food as apparantly Monty didn't like it... same for dog but as the dog is with me he gets what ever is on special and he never complains!!! And sure, a lot of the cheaper brand food doesn't taste as good as the more expensive stuff, but if you only know the taste of the cheaper stuff then it makes no diff... If it gives you a cheaper grocery bill at the checkout then great!!!