10 Best Consumer Staples Penny Stocks to Buy Now

In this article, we will take a look at some of the best penny stocks across the consumer staples space.

On April 10, CNBC reported that consumer sentiment plunged to its lowest level in April, fueled by concerns about high inflation amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. As per a survey conducted by the University of Michigan, the geopolitical tensions have led to a sharp jump in energy and commodity prices. This caused the university’s headline consumer sentiment index to tumble to 47.6, a 10.7% drop compared to the prior month, also marking the lowest figure on record.

However, Joanne Hsu, the survey’s director, noted that these results are based on data collected prior to the ceasefire announced on April 7. Hence, there is a possibility of a reversal of the trend in the coming weeks as the peace talks advance.

Back in mid-March, the Managing Director from RBC Capital Markets, Nik Modi, reflected on how the ongoing situation could adversely affect the pricing power of many consumer staples businesses. Despite some short-term contractual hedges that these companies possess, they will eventually come under pressure due to higher operating costs. More importantly, it will be challenging for them to pass these costs on to the consumer in the current environment, where the companies are already exposed to volumetric pressure. Modi recommended a highly cautious approach in identifying consumer staples names that are more protected against such inflationary indicators.

With that background, let’s explore our 10 Best Consumer Staples Penny Stocks to Buy Now.

Our Methodology

To identify relevant stocks for this article, we screened U.S.-listed consumer staples companies with share prices below $5 and market capitalizations above $200 million. Also, we only shortlisted stocks with at least 10% upside potential, according to consensus, as of the April 17 close. Next, we selected 10 stocks with the highest upside and ranked them in ascending order.

Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 498.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 303 percentage points (see more details here).

10. Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:NWL)

Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:NWL) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

On April 16, Canaccord Genuity increased the price target on Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:NWL) from $8 to $9, resulting in an adjusted upside potential of almost 108% at the prevailing level. The firm also maintained its Buy rating on the stock.

The price target adjustment was based on revisions to estimates before the first-quarter earnings. These incorporated analysis of sales data from Circana, Semrush searches, and social media engagement. Canaccord notes a good risk-to-reward ratio going into the earnings print, driven by strong Sharpie and Graco segments, better performance in Rubbermaid, and upside potential in the outdoor category.

Canaccord Genuity also highlighted Coleman’s new collapsible cooler as the top-selling product on Amazon. The rating supports the view that Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:NWL) is currently one of the top penny stocks within the consumer staples category.

On April 9, RBC Capital reduced the price target on Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:NWL) from $4.50 to $4 while reiterating a Sector Perform rating on the stock. The firm attributed this stance to the first-quarter earnings preview, which uncovered muted topline trends.

RBC Capital also noted inflationary pressures and rising commodity prices amid the Middle East conflict. Despite positive developments around the ceasefire, it anticipates the impact of such factors to persist in the foreseeable future.

Newell Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:NWL) designs, manufactures, and sells commercial and consumer goods. Its product portfolio includes cleaning and maintenance services, storage products, closet and garage organization goods, and vacuum sealing goods. It also offers stationery and art supplies, technical apparel, gourmet cookware and bakeware, labeling solutions, and baby care products.

9. Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd. (NYSE:DDL)

Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd. (NYSE:DDL) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

As of April 17 closing, Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd. (NYSE:DDL) received coverage from 2 analysts, both of whom assigned Buy ratings to the stock. With a median 1-year price target of $3.19, it offers an upside potential of almost 18% at the current level.

On March 27, Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd. (NYSE:DDL) held its 2026 Annual General Meeting, where all three proposals received shareholder approval and were duly passed as ordinary resolutions. The first proposal approved the sale of shares through the agreement with Two Hearts Investment Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Meituan, in relation to the sale of BVI Incorporated’s substantial assets of Dingdong in China.

The second proposal allowed the board to use not less than 90% of the cash proceeds from the transaction to buy back shares or make dividend distributions. The third proposal provided the board with general powers regarding the execution of necessary documentation and filings to finalize the sale.

Chairman Liang Changlin stressed that Dingdong would create more value on the bigger platform of Meituan owing to its strengths related to logistics, product creation, and operations efficiency. Changlin also assured that 90% of the sale proceeds would be distributed to shareholders as a longstanding practice of the company. All proposals were passed as ordinary shareholder resolutions.

Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd. (NYSE:DDL) is an e-commerce company that sells fresh groceries. It offers a variety of edible items like meat and eggs, fruits and vegetables, and seafood. It also sells ready-to-eat or cooked products, instant food, baked goods, dairy products, oil, and more.

8. Udemy Inc. (NASDAQ:UDMY)

Udemy Inc. (NASDAQ:UDMY) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

On April 9, Coursera Inc. (NYSE:COUR) and Udemy Inc. (NASDAQ:UDMY) shareholders voted in the majority to approve a merger between the two entities. The shareholders of Coursera voted by 99.4% to issue new shares for the acquisition. The voting at Udemy resulted in an almost unanimous decision of 99.9% in favor of adopting the merger agreement.

Fewer than 500,000 of the 228 million total votes cast were against the deal. The Coursera shareholders also agreed to increase the number of authorized shares to 600 million, twice the current amount of 300 million shares. The exchange will involve an offer of 0.8 shares of Coursera for every Udemy share, totaling roughly $1.7 billion in valuation. Potential synergies from this transaction bode well for Udemy Inc. (NASDAQ:UDMY) and support the argument that it is one of the top penny consumer staples picks.

Earlier on April 7, the company made an official announcement regarding the launch of a comprehensive end-to-end certification process that significantly leverages its dedicated Microsoft Certification (NASDAQ:MSFT) resources. This strategic development is primarily being driven by a new integration that enables students to buy over 50 different exam vouchers straight from the platform.

This rollout seamlessly complements the massive library of over 10,000 Microsoft courses the enterprise already hosts till day. Ultimately, this establishes a highly accessible route for users to effectively move from the practice of fundamental skills to practical application.

Udemy Inc. (NASDAQ:UDMY) is a learning company offering technology, business, soft skills, and personal development courses through its platform. The platform provides interactive learning tools, a Udemy AI assistant, and a natural chat language interface for learners. The company also offers flexible subscription plans, AI transformation services, and other end-to-end learning solutions, optionally with a Udemy Business Add On.

7. Krispy Kreme Inc. (NASDAQ:DNUT)

Krispy Kreme Inc. (NASDAQ:DNUT) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

On April 17, Krispy Kreme Inc. (NASDAQ:DNUT) signed an agreement with Jafa Holding BV to enter the Dutch market, where it is estimated that its first store would open in late 2026. This is a very important step for the company since it keeps expanding globally using its franchise business model, which has been quite light in terms of capital. Such global reach makes Krispy Kreme Inc. (NASDAQ:DNUT) stand out as one of the most appealing consumer-staples penny stocks.

Its first store in the Netherlands would also offer the unique Hot Light experience it is known for and serve as a manufacturing unit. Krispy Kreme plans on opening about 30 stores within the coming five years. Overall, the company plans on entering at least 3 or 4 international markets this year by opening over 100 stores.

The bullish views around the stock also stem from the company’s efforts to solidify its financial position. On March 25, Krispy Kreme Inc. (NASDAQ:DNUT) stated that it has reached a deal with its partner, the WKS Restaurant Group, to increase WKS’ stake in the joint venture in the western region of the country from 45% to 80%. The total value of this deal is estimated at about $90 million, out of which $50 million will be paid to DNUT initially in cash.

The proceeds from this deal will be used by Krispy Kreme to settle its debts. As part of the acquisition deal, the joint venture took over 23 additional shops in California and Hawaii that had previously been run by the company.

Krispy Kreme Inc. (NASDAQ:DNUT) is an international doughnut producer. The company is known for offering doughnut experiences through customized cabinets, hot light theatres, fresh shops, and in-store merchandising units. It also operates various company-owned stores and franchises.

6. Gaotu Techedu Inc. (NYSE:GOTU)

Gaotu Techedu Inc. (NYSE:GOTU) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

As of the close of play on April 17, the stock received a Buy rating from 4 of the 6 analysts covering it. With 1 Hold rating and 1 Sell rating, it carries a projected median 1-year target price of $3.69, leading to an impressive upside potential of almost 85% for investors.

During early March, Gaotu Techedu Inc. (NYSE:GOTU) Chief Financial Officer Nan Shen laid out the company’s earnings forecast, projecting the first quarter revenues to fall between 1,578 and 1,598 RMB. This indicates an increase of 5.7% to 7% in yearly growth rates. According to Shen, the increase in revenue is due to seasonality issues and will continue in the second quarter at a double-digit rate.

Expanding the offline learning centers has its share of problems. Some issues that Shen noted include the ability to manage staff effectively, proper coordination among different departments, and employing excellent teachers who are critical. The team is reviewing and tweaking things to keep growth on track despite these hurdles.

Gaotu Techedu Inc. (NYSE:GOTU) is a provider of educational content and digitalized learning goods and services. Its services include conventional learning services, non-academic learning, and consultation services for people who are planning to study abroad. It also offers course outlines, practice lessons, reading apps, AI-based writing assessment tools, and more.

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5. Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY)

Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

On April 14, Barclays reduced the price target on Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) from $2.50 to $2 while reaffirming an Underweight rating on the stock. This downward price target revision is driven by a general realignment across the consumer staples group as part of a first-quarter preview.

5 Best Consumer Staples Penny Stocks to Buy Now

Image: Depositphotos

Heading into the upcoming earnings prints, the firm is adopting a much more cautious stance across the board, largely due to mounting pressure from higher input costs. Furthermore, for certain key companies in the food sector, Barclays has warned of growing concerns about the long-term sustainability of dividends.

On March 30, Steve Powers from Deutsche Bank reduced the price target on Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) from $3 to $2 while maintaining a Hold rating on the stock. The analyst observes a valid and widespread push coming within the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector because of the Middle East conflict. In March, the companies underperformed due to issues such as cost inflation, demand destruction through trade-down, and negative currency effects.

Despite the bearish views noted above, the stock carries a median 1-year price target of $3.41, according to the consensus as of the April 17 close. This results in an upside potential of more than 43%, making Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) an attractive investment option across the consumer staples penny stocks universe.

Coty Inc. (NYSE:COTY) is a producer, distributor, and marketer of beauty products around the world. It operates through various retail and online channels, and offers different products, including color cosmetics, fragrances, skin care products, and more. It covers a long list of brands such as Gucci, Orveda, Vera Wang, Tiffany & Co., and more.

4. Village Farms International Inc. (NASDAQ:VFF)

Village Farms International Inc. (NASDAQ:VFF) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

On March 30, Village Farms International Inc. (NASDAQ:VFF) reported that the long-serving Chief Financial Officer, Stephen Ruffini, will be retiring from his post following the completion of the company’s succession plan. The company has ensured that the departure of Mr. Ruffini would not pose any problem with respect to accounting, financial reporting, management, and policy matters.

While Village Farms has already begun recruiting to replace Mr. Ruffini, the succession plan would see him in a new executive role focused on mergers and acquisitions. This is consistent with Village Farms’ corporate strategy to scale up, both organically and through accretive acquisitions around the globe.

Back on March 31, Village Farms International Inc. (NASDAQ:VFF) finalized improved terms on its long-standing $15.4 million loan agreement with Farm Credit Canada. This financial update is supported by the drop in interest rate by 50 basis points, combined with maturity extension to February 2031. All other basic requirements remain the same; however, the debt now has a variable rate that has dropped below 7.0%.

To effectively enhance corporate liquidity to support ongoing cannabis, plant-based, and sustainable energy efforts across Canada, Europe, and the United States, management has portrayed this amendment as a significant vote of confidence from lenders. Nonetheless, the broader street remains slightly cautious.

Village Farms International Inc. (NASDAQ:VFF) is engaged in the production and supply of cannabis goods to authorized vendors and provincial governments around the world. The company also offers wellness and cannabinoid-based health products, including edibles and ingestibles. It is also a supplier of cannabis products for certain authorized coffee shops.

3. Yatsen Holding Ltd. (NYSE:YSG)

Yatsen Holding Ltd. (NYSE:YSG) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

As of the April 17 closing, the stock offers more than 76% potential upside. This is based on a $5.80 median 1-year price target. Such upside creates a strong appeal for Yatsen Holding Ltd. (NYSE:YSG) as one of the best penny stocks in the consumer staples category.

What also supports the bullish stance around Yatsen Holding Ltd. (NYSE:YSG), is its strategic partnerships and capital raising efforts to fuel growth opportunities. During mid-March, the company announced a definitive agreement with an investment vehicle affiliated with Trustar Capital and founder Jinfeng Huang to subscribe for approximately $120 million in convertible senior notes.

These will be issued in two equal tranches, along with warrants to purchase Class A ordinary shares. Even though Trustar Capital is a participant in this transaction, Mr. Huang will be making the investment, which shows how much faith he has in the future of the company. Note that the first note will be released in March 2026, whereas the second one will appear in the market during the rest of that year.

The money raised from the issue will be used for research and development, logistics on a global scale, expansion internationally, and acquisition purposes. As Mr. Huang stated in relation to this transaction, it proves his confidence in Yatsen’s strategic approach going forward. The deal indicates an expanding strategic relationship where Trustar Capital uses its wide network to help Yatsen realize the synergies by making cross-border acquisitions within the value chain of the beauty industry.

Yatsen Holding Ltd. (NYSE:YSG) is involved in the production and sale of beauty products in China. Its product portfolio consists of colored products for the eyes, face, and lips. The company also offers skin care products like creams, serums, masks, toners, and more. It also sells beauty devices, tools, and kits through both online and offline channels.

2. Niagen Bioscience Inc. (NASDAQ:NAGE)

Niagen Bioscience Inc. (NASDAQ:NAGE) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

On April 9, Niagen Bioscience Inc. (NASDAQ:NAGE) announced that Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride, the patented form of nicotinamide riboside used in its key product, Niagen, was granted an official dietary supplement ingredient monograph by the United States Pharmacopeia.

Following the announcement, the CEO, Rob Fried, pointed out that it was an important milestone for the entire NAD+ supplement sector. As he explained, NR had become the only substance within this group to be provided with a published standard by the Pharmacopeia, while NMN and NAD+ lacked such standards. Such developments around Niagen have led to a favorable sentiment for the stock, which is one of the most promising consumer staples names.

Back on March 10, the company shared that it had obtained US Patent No. 12,558,367 Niagen. This intellectual property expansion was backed by the company’s vigorous efforts to create a vast competitive moat around commercial longevity science. As the natural cellular energy levels gradually decrease with aging, the wellness sector as a whole is quickly shifting from simple oral supplements to extremely effective therapeutic delivery systems.

Rob Fried, the CEO, stated unequivocally that this particular patent ensures crucial intellectual protection through 2044. This demonstrates the company’s uniqueness in providing a much better aqueous-based solution under the new Niagen Plus brand. In fact, it fully avoids the physical discomfort typically associated with these particular IV medicines while circumventing normal digestion to enable far faster infusion times.

Niagen Bioscience Inc. (NASDAQ:NAGE) is involved in the development and commercialization of aging products. It sells the dietary supplement nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), pharmaceutical- and food-grade Niagen, and the NAD+ precursor nicotinamide riboside. It sells products through multiple channels like e-commerce, specialty retailers, and licensed healthcare resellers.

1. BRC Inc. (NYSE:BRCC)

BRC Inc. (NYSE:BRCC) is one of the 10 best consumer staples penny stocks to buy now.

As of the April 17 close, BRC Inc. (NYSE:BRCC) had a moderately bullish consensus sentiment. The stock received Buy ratings from both analysts who cover it. With a median 1-year price target of $2.50, it offers a highly lucrative upside potential of more than 183% at the prevailing level. This makes it one of the most attractive penny stocks within the consumer staples category.

What also makes the story more compelling is the company’s proactive approach towards securing future financing. On March 26, it filed for a mixed securities shelf worth $500 million, which is aimed at supporting future expansion plans.

In early March, the company shared its forecasts for 2026, with an expectation of at least 7% expansion of topline. This will amount to $425 million in revenue and reflects strong trends across the packaged coffee segment. The management expects gross margins to stay within 34% to 36% range, which is marginally lower than the prior-year figures.

EBITDA is projected to grow 30% from $21.4 million in 2025. Such an optimistic outlook should entice investors who are looking for opportunities within the consumer staples penny stock universe.

BRC Inc. (NYSE:BRCC) is a buyer, roaster, and seller of coffee beans and accessories across the United States. Its product portfolio includes coffee brewing equipment, apparel, outdoor and lifestyle gear, and Black Rifle-branded apparel. It mainly sells through the wholesale, e-commerce, and outpost channels, as well as directly to consumers.

While we acknowledge the potential of BRCC to grow, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than BRCC and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

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