NEW YORK — One of the ways consumers are coping with inflation is by purchasing more store brand products. That’s good news for retailers, who are upping the profile and quality of their own brand products to try to ensure that customers who try their products continue to buy them even when the economic climate improves.

Dollar General recently announced that it has reformulated and rebranded its dog and cat food line, Nature’s Menu. The company said the “elevated, now premium brand pet food at a value price” was developed in response to consumer insights.

“Our team of brand managers and buyers strive to ensure each private brand item we develop focuses on the needs of our customers and their families. Such is the case with Nature’s Menu, Dollar General’s exclusive super premium dog and cat food brand,” said Jackie Li, senior vice president of private brands and global sourcing at Dollar General. “Nature’s Menu is made by a family-owned and operated company in the USA and, like other DG private brands, is backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. We are pleased to bring this exceptional, premium brand of pet food to market.”

Albertsons Cos., meanwhile, has redesigned its Open Nature brand, which the retailer aims to position as the brand of choice for health-conscious consumers who want tasty food options that are free of unwanted ingredients.

“Research has shown that Americans are adopting better-for-you eating patterns as a means for protecting their long-term health and preventing future health conditions,” said Brandon Brow, senior vice president of own brands at Albertsons Cos. “The expansion of our Open Nature offerings demonstrates and ongoing commitment to support the health and well-being of our neighbors and communities.”

Open Nature has added 12 new plant-based products to its portfolio, including dairy-free yogurt, cheese and frozen dessert alternatives that are designed to help customers stick to a balanced, plant-forward diet at accessible prices, the company said.

And for meat eaters, Open Nature now offers 100% domestic-raised, grass-fed Angus beef.