Asda's own-label mayonnaise has been crowned the winner in a taste test of seven supermarket and branded mayonnaises, scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 while costing more than £1 less than market leader Hellmann's. The test, conducted by journalist Mia O'Hare, compared own-label offerings from Aldi, Lidl, Sainsbury's, Asda, Tesco and Marks and Spencer against Hellmann's.
The Taste Test Lineup and Methodology
O'Hare evaluated each mayonnaise on flavour, texture, creaminess and overall value. Hellmann's, priced at £2.75 from Tesco, served as the benchmark. The own-label prices ranged from 86p for Tesco to £1.20 for Marks and Spencer. The tasting was conducted blind to avoid brand bias.
Results: Asda Takes First Place
Asda's mayonnaise, costing 96p, scored the maximum 10/10. O'Hare described it as having "the colour, creaminess and silky texture" that distinguished it from the rest. She added that it delivered "a satisfying tang that you'd anticipate from mayonnaise" and would have you "reaching for chips to dip in." The taste was "spot-on" and at £1.79 cheaper than Hellmann's, it was the clear winner.
Marks and Spencer Takes Second
Marks and Spencer's own-label mayonnaise, at £1.20 the priciest own-brand option, scored 9/10. O'Hare noted it had a "distinctly different taste" but in a positive way — "notably light and fluffy with an agreeable tang and creaminess." She recommended it for those seeking a lighter mayonnaise that isn't overly thick.
Aldi and Hellmann's Tie for Third
Aldi's 95p mayonnaise tied with Hellmann's at 8/10. O'Hare found Aldi's offering "indistinguishable in flavour from Hellmann's," with the same creaminess and balance of flavours. She called it "an excellent choice if you're looking for a more affordable alternative." Hellmann's itself scored 8/10, praised for being "wonderfully creamy with a well-judged balance of sweetness and tanginess."
Sainsbury's, Lidl and Tesco Trail Behind
Sainsbury's mayonnaise, at 89p, scored 6/10. It was the thickest in the test and notably light in colour, delivering "a satisfying strength and flavour" suitable for salads. Lidl's 95p offering scored 3/10; while it had a "pleasantly creamy texture," it lacked depth of flavour and carried a "distinctly sour taste." Tesco's 86p mayonnaise came last with 2/10, described as "far too sharp and vinegary" with that single note overwhelming everything else.
Value Comparison
Asda's winning mayonnaise costs 96p for a standard jar, compared to Hellmann's at £2.75 — a saving of £1.79. Even the priciest own-brand, Marks and Spencer at £1.20, undercuts Hellmann's by £1.55. The cheapest option, Tesco at 86p, was the lowest rated.
