In a stunning upset that's got the nation talking, a humble 99p ice cream from discount supermarket Lidl has been voted Britain's best frozen treat, leaving premium competitors in the dust.
The Underdog's Sweet Victory
Consumer champion Which? put 15 popular ice cream tubs through their paces in blind taste tests, and the results have sent shockwaves through the frozen dessert aisle. Lidl's Luxury Belgian Dark Chocolate Ice Cream, costing just 99p per 900ml tub, emerged as the clear winner with an impressive 75% score.
How the Testing Worked
A panel of experienced testers evaluated each ice cream on:
- Texture and creaminess
- Flavour intensity and authenticity
- Overall enjoyment factor
- Value for money
The blind format ensured that brand reputation and price tags didn't influence the scores, allowing the true quality to shine through.
Premium Brands Left Melting
What makes Lidl's victory particularly remarkable is the company it beat. The budget option outperformed ice creams from:
- Haagen-Dazs (£4.75 for 460ml)
- Ben & Jerry's (£5.25 for 465ml)
- Kelly's of Cornwall (£3.50 for 900ml)
- Wall's (£2.75 for 900ml)
Testers praised Lidl's offering for its "rich, authentic chocolate flavour" and "surprisingly creamy texture" that belied its bargain price point.
What Makes It So Special?
The winning ice cream contains 4% Belgian dark chocolate, creating a sophisticated flavour profile that impressed even the most discerning palates. One tester noted it had "a proper chocolate taste" rather than the artificial flavour sometimes found in budget options.
The Value Equation
When value for money was factored in, Lidl's position became unassailable. At just 11p per 100ml compared to Haagen-Dazs' 103p per 100ml, the price-to-quality ratio proved unbeatable.
Consumer Reaction
Shoppers have been quick to celebrate the victory for common sense and great value. Social media has been buzzing with comments from surprised consumers who've discovered that premium prices don't always mean premium quality.
One delighted customer tweeted: "Always knew Lidl's ice cream was good, but having it officially confirmed as the best feels like a win for every budget-conscious shopper!"
The Bigger Picture
This victory comes at a time when British households are increasingly looking for ways to enjoy quality treats without breaking the bank. With the cost of living continuing to squeeze budgets, discoveries like this provide both financial relief and a touch of sweet satisfaction.
The lesson is clear: sometimes the best things in life don't have to cost a fortune. As one Which? researcher put it, "This proves that with careful sourcing and smart manufacturing, supermarkets can deliver exceptional quality at astonishing prices."
