Marks & Spencer's own-brand instant coffee, priced at just £1.20, has been crowned the winner in a taste test of five major UK supermarket coffees, outperforming more expensive rivals from Tesco, Aldi, Morrisons, and Co-op.
Taste Test Methodology
Journalist Katherine McPhillips, writing for What's On, conducted the blind taste test to find the best budget-friendly instant coffee for iced lattes during the UK heatwave. Each coffee was prepared identically: granules dissolved in hot water, poured over ice, and finished with cold milk. No syrups or toppings were added.
Results: M&S Takes Top Spot
M&S coffee, priced at £1.20, was described as "rich and smooth" and delivered a "deep, full-bodied flavour" with no harsh aftertaste. McPhillips noted it was "velvety" and said she has reached for it multiple times since the test, recommending it over many coffee shop drinks.
Aldi's coffee, at £2.09, came second. It was praised for its "robust" aroma and "bold flavour," though it was slightly less silky than the winner. McPhillips said she would make a special trip to buy it again.
Lower Rankings
Co-op's coffee, at £3.00, placed third. While fair trade and pleasant, it lacked richness and depth. Morrisons' £1.35 coffee was deemed "bland and flat," with milk being the most prominent flavour. Tesco's £2.35 coffee was the weakest, described as having a "burnt flavour" and "acidic aftertaste," despite being labelled "mellow and smooth."
Cost Comparison
Surprisingly, M&S—often perceived as premium-priced—offered the cheapest option at £1.20, while Co-op was the most expensive at £3.00 for the smallest jar. McPhillips noted that making iced coffee at home is far more economical than daily coffee shop visits.
