A taste test of own-label baked beans from seven major UK supermarkets has crowned Co-op as the winner, with Aldi coming last. The test, conducted by a consumer journalist, evaluated each tin on sweetness, consistency, and overall taste, scoring them out of a maximum of 20 points.
Co-op's beans scored top marks, praised for their rich flavour and sweetness. The sauce was described as the most delicious among all samples, with a darker colour that hinted at a more powerful taste. The beans were heated strictly according to package instructions to ensure fairness.
Lidl came a close second, offering good value at 40p per tin. The beans had a nice sweetness and an appealing colour, with a spot-on bean-to-sauce ratio. However, they could have been slightly sweeter. Tesco's beans took third place, with a lovely sweetness and strong flavour, though the texture required a bit more cooking time.
At the bottom of the table, Aldi's beans scored below 50%, with the weakest flavour and thinnest sauce. M&S beans, which contain no added sugar, were also disappointing, lacking richness and depth despite decent texture. Sainsbury's beans had a thin consistency and subdued flavour, while Waitrose offered an acceptable but unremarkable taste.
The test highlighted that budget options can outperform premium brands, with Co-op and Lidl proving that price does not always dictate quality. The results suggest that shoppers can save money without compromising on taste.
