Despite the lingering chill of winter, indulging in ice cream remains a delightful treat any time of year. For those craving a sweet, chocolate-coated vanilla dessert, a recent investigation by consumer champion Which? has identified the top contenders, with one supermarket own-brand option proving just as good as the iconic Magnum.
Blind Taste Test Reveals Surprising Results
To determine which ice cream reigns supreme, Which? assembled a panel of 60 volunteers to conduct a blind taste test. Participants sampled Magnum Classic ice creams alongside nine supermarket own-label alternatives, including offerings from Aldi and Marks and Spencer. The results were eye-opening, challenging perceptions of brand superiority.
Marks and Spencer Ties with Magnum for First Place
In a remarkable outcome, Marks and Spencer's Chocolate Sticks ice cream shared joint first position with the original Magnum Classic. Both products secured an impressive approval score of 82% from the taste testers. Most volunteers praised the sweetness and intensity of the chocolate and vanilla flavours in both options, noting a luxurious creamy consistency that delighted the palate.
Priced at £2.40 for three 110ml ice creams, equating to 80p each, the M&S version is among the pricier own-brand selections. However, it remains a full pound cheaper than Magnums, which cost £3.50 for a trio, making it a more economical choice for consumers.
Lidl and Aldi Offer Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Claiming third spot with a 79% approval rating was Lidl's Gelatelli Classic Ice Cream sticks. Testers loved this choice, highlighting its perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and vanilla taste. Costing less than half the price of Magnums and slightly larger in size, these sticks represent an excellent wallet-friendly alternative for ice cream enthusiasts.
In fourth position was Aldi Gianni's Milk Chocolate Ice Creams, which earned a rating of 77%. Priced at just £1.69 for four 100ml ice creams, or 42p each, these proved the most affordable option in the test. While they scored highly on taste, some testers felt the ice cream lacked sufficient creaminess, indicating a slight trade-off for the lower price point.
Consumer Insights and Recommendations
The findings from Which? underscore that supermarket own-brand ice creams can compete with, and even match, leading name brands in terms of flavour and quality. For Magnum lovers, the M&S Chocolate Sticks offer a nearly identical taste experience at a reduced cost, providing significant savings without compromising on enjoyment.
As ice cream remains a popular indulgence regardless of the season, consumers are encouraged to explore these alternatives. Watching for special offers on Magnums can also yield better value, but the test confirms that cheaper options like those from Lidl and Aldi deliver commendable quality, making them smart choices for budget-conscious shoppers.
