Own brand products is one way to reduce costs.
Minister of State at the Department of Finance Seán Fleming has appeared in Conor Pope's pricewatch patch in the Irish Times this week.
He started making all sorts of headlines after telling people how they needed to shop.
"Shopping around is my thing. It’s been my thing for years. So I’m not going to lie, I was miffed by your mini home economics lecture delivered on Drivetime although in truth, my annoyance didn’t last long," wrote Pope.
He spoke to KFM about the steps people can take that will make the price hikes less savage.
"Shopping around isn't always an option, some people have already discontinued their health insurance because they can no longer afford it.
"They have switched to pre-paid power meters.
"But there are better value options across supermarkets.
"Own products are just as good quality as branded products," he explained.
"Only 35% of Irish shopping trolleys have own brand products, 65% of products are branded.
"Irish people love branded products.
"So when people say shop around that's what it means," he said.
Conor Pope has a new show starting on RTE soon and needs help from KFM's listeners.
If you would like to get involved email price@indiepics.ie or call 01 708 8183
Conor Pope spoke with Ciara Noble on this morning's Kildare Focus: