Fish fingers are a firm favourite choice in many households as a simple dish that pleases all the family, but are the cheaper alternatives any better than the branded ones? Lifestyle journalist Emily Malia put some of Britain's biggest supermarket brands to the test to see if they can compete with the likes of Birds Eye.
The Taste Test
All fish fingers were cooked for around 12-14 minutes at 200 degrees in the oven to ensure a fair test, though other methods such as frying are also possible.
Asda
The standard orange-coloured breadcrumbs were crispy and crumbly just as you would like them, but the taste itself was very simple. So much so that one could easily eat endless amounts because they are so light, but you want to feel full after your dinner, not be searching for more. Flavour-wise, they are not very strong in fish taste — this just was not strong enough. Texture-wise, however, it was a melt-in-your-mouth sensation once past the crispy batter. Rating: 3/5
M&S
Straight away it was clear this would be a top-tier fish finger because it delivered on taste, a lot stronger and a lot chewier, so you actually feel like you are eating some protein. The batter was crispy but thinner in comparison to the Asda option, although still delicious. These would be bought again in a heartbeat, although £2.50 is more expensive than Birds Eye itself, making it a more luxury option. Personally, it is worth it. Rating: 5/5
Sainsbury's
Even picking up a Sainsbury's fish finger, you can feel it is almost half the size in thickness compared to the M&S option. It feels thin and cheap, with a higher breadcrumb-to-fish ratio. Taste-wise, it felt very similar to the Asda option, where it did not offer much flavour, but in this case there is also not a nice texture. It does not melt in your mouth or have a good chew to it either; it is a pretty bang-average eating experience. Maybe grilling could deliver better results for those willing to try, and at a mere 80p it is worth a go. Rating: 2/5
Birds Eye (£2.10)
These were delicious, and while being visibly thinner and lighter in colour, they were a lot chewier and tastier. They are a well-known brand for a reason, and their fish speciality shines through. Although their batter was crispier and less crumbly, like a traditional fish finger, which is tasty, the original style is a lot more cosy and nostalgic. Still, M&S beats these fish fingers, but they certainly come close, and for the sake of 40p, this is a trusted option that still delivers. Rating: 4/5
Tesco
At a more sensible price, these fish fingers are a great, cheaper alternative, with creamy fish as opposed to the more powerful tastes. For flavour, they did deliver, with a much more subtle fish flavour for those who prefer it, paired with a melt-in-your-mouth sort of texture with less chew. However, the results were a bit mushier than some of the others and less crispy on the outside than preferred, falling apart a lot easier and sticking to the tray slightly. Rating: 4/5
Conclusion
M&S emerges as the winner with a perfect score, offering a premium fish finger experience. Birds Eye follows closely as a trusted classic, while Tesco provides good value. Asda offers a decent option, but Sainsbury's disappoints with its thin and bland offering.
