Journalist Brian Dillon conducted a taste test comparing own-brand bacon from the UK's two largest supermarket chains, Tesco and Sainsbury's. The clear winner was Tesco, primarily because its bacon did not shrink during cooking, unlike the Sainsbury's rashers.
Why Tesco Won
Dillon purchased the cheapest bacon available from each supermarket: Tesco Unsmoked Back Bacon Rashers 10 Pack and Sainsbury's Unsmoked Back Bacon Rashers x10, both priced at £1.49. He cooked both according to package instructions and scored them on flavour, texture, and appearance. The deciding factor was shrinkage: Tesco's rashers retained their size, while Sainsbury's shrank noticeably. Dillon also praised Tesco's bacon for its lovely, meaty flavour that was not overpowering, and a nice mixture of textures, making it ideal for sandwiches or burgers.
Sainsbury's Bacon Review
Dillon noted that Sainsbury's bacon was not bad—it had plenty of flavour—but it was chewier compared to Tesco's. He concluded that Tesco wins by a mile.
Best Way to Cook Bacon
Experts recommend different methods. Chef Will Murray of Fallow restaurant suggests using the oven for crispier bacon. Others recommend adding a small amount of water to a frying pan and covering it to retain moisture. A YouTuber advised against frying pans altogether, advocating for oven cooking instead.
