NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A local financial expert said people need to make better decisions when grocery shopping.

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On the topic of groceries, Dave Ramsey said perception doesn't always mirror reality.

He said many people are making some bad decisions when they head to the grocery store.

"Overall, food prices are not up. They're fairly flat. There are a few spikes in certain areas. Eggs are through the roof as an example," he said.

But consumers seem to be drawn in to what appear to be extraordinary deals, Ramsey said.

"Don't fall for the warehouse tactics. You don't need nine gallons of mustard. You just won't ever use nine gallons of mustard -- you won't. I know you've lusted over it, but you don't need it," he said.

In fact, Ramsey said, some of the best bargains have been around for years.

"Yes, you can look at the generic brands. A lot of the generics are made by the same people and change the box. Some of them are substandard quality, so you've got to compare back and forth," he said.

Ramsey said people also shouldn't discount the power of coupons.