I hear what your saying about the cost, i used to make all my own baits in the 80's, done ok on it, just dont have the time anymore, and i was the only one putting that bait in,using a good mass produced bait means other are pre-baiting for you
I now buy in bulk, 50kg at a time so get it at around £5.50 a kilo, and that lasts me a year... sod paying £50 for bait for a weekend lol