In a blind taste test of standard coleslaws from 10 major UK supermarkets, Aldi's offering emerged as a top scorer, with the taster noting it reminded them of KFC's coleslaw. The test, conducted by Robert Fisk for the Daily Express, rated each coleslaw on flavor, texture, and value for money.
The Contenders and Methodology
Fisk purchased the standard, non-premium versions from Marks and Spencer, Co-Op, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, Tesco, Aldi, Lidl, Iceland, Waitrose, and Asda. Each was tasted after being out of the fridge for about five minutes to mimic summer picnic conditions.
Lowest Rated: Lidl and Co-Op
Lidl's creamy coleslaw scored 3/10. Fisk described it as lacking tanginess and tasting like "someone just dropped some vegetables into a bowl of watery mayonnaise." Co-Op's classic coleslaw scored 4/10, criticized for being overly vinegary and bitter.
Mid-Range Performers
Iceland and Morrisons both scored 4/10. Iceland had insufficient dressing, while Morrisons was "claggy" with uneven texture. Waitrose and Asda scored 4/10 and 5/10 respectively, with Waitrose lacking punch and Asda having overly thick dressing. Sainsbury's scored 6/10, described as having a thin but creamy dressing with satisfying crunch.
Top Scorers: Aldi, Tesco, and Marks and Spencer
Aldi's coleslaw scored 7/10, praised for its refreshing, tangy dressing that reminded the taster of KFC's coleslaw. At £1.29 (£0.22 per 100g), it was the joint cheapest per 100g. Tesco also scored 7/10, described as "crunchy and tangy" and ideal for summer eating. Marks and Spencer scored 7/10, with a creamy dressing and varied vegetable sizes that gave it a homemade feel.
Price Comparison
Prices ranged from £1.09 for Lidl to £2.25 for Iceland. Aldi and Lidl were the cheapest per 100g at £0.22, while Co-Op was the most expensive at £0.52 per 100g.
Conclusion
For those seeking a coleslaw reminiscent of KFC, Aldi offers the best value and flavor, according to this taste test. Tesco and M&S also deliver quality options.
