UNLV Researchers studied the quality of produce you can purchase at discount stores.

Nearly 2,780 stores are slated to open nationwide in 2019, and roughly 1,800 of them, more than half, will be part of discount chains.

The fact that discounters are resonating in a strong economy shows just how much shoppers value a bargain. It's also testament to the broadening appeal these stores have, with fresher, higher-quality assortment and updated store layouts reaching consumers higher up the income ladder.

The fact that discounters are resonating in a strong economy shows just how much shoppers value a bargain. It's also testament to the broadening appeal these stores have, with fresher, higher-quality assortment and updated store layouts reaching consumers higher up the income ladder.

When it comes time to do your grocery shopping and load up on fresh food for your family, the local dollar store may not be the first place you think to go. Who wants to settle for wilted vegetables and sketchy-looking fruit just to save a buck? But a new study says you might want to rethink that point of view – because discount produce at the dollar store is just as good as the more expensive stuff you can get everywhere else.

A new study from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas found that the quality of fruits and vegetables at dollar stores was just as good as regular supermarket produce, news that could benefit budget-conscious shoppers and those that live in USDA-labeled food deserts.

“Channel blurring” can widen access to healthy food, UNLV researchers say.

The study compared the color, cleanliness, freshness and firmness of fruits and vegetables in 14 dollar-discount stores to 40 traditional food outlets across the Las Vegas metro area.