How to Compare Grocery Unit Prices Using Rice

To compare two bags of rice, divide each price by its net weight in kilograms. The result tells you what the same weight would cost at each price. Start with rice of the same type, since a lower unit price can still buy something that cooks differently.

Compare 500 g with 1 kg

A 500 g bag weighs 0.5 kg. If it costs $6, divide 6 by 0.5 to get $12 per kg. If a 1 kg bag costs $11, its unit price is $11 per kg. In this example, the larger bag saves $1 per kilogram. The prices are illustrative.

Run the numbers again on sale

If the small bag drops to $5, it now costs $10 per kg and becomes the cheaper option per kilogram. For a loyalty or multibuy offer, divide the total you would actually pay by the total weight you would actually take home. Check that both shelf labels use the same unit.

Common questions

Is a lower price per kilo always better value?

Think about cupboard space and how much rice you will use. If you only need a little and the rest would sit unused, a small bag may cost you less at the checkout.

What if the label lists the price per 100 g?

Multiply the price per 100 g by 10, then compare the two prices per kilogram.

Before choosing a bag, check the rice variety and amount in this basmati chicken biryani recipe.

For the comparison method, see the NIST Unit Pricing Guide.