Express journalist Jennifer Pinto conducted a blind taste test of cream of tomato soups from six major UK supermarkets—Tesco, Sainsbury's, Aldi, Lidl, M&S, and Waitrose—to determine if any could rival Heinz's iconic Cream of Tomato soup. Each soup was scored out of 10 based on taste, texture, smell, appearance, aftertaste, and overall satisfaction.
Heinz Scores a Disappointing 3/10
Heinz Cream of Tomato Soup, priced at £1.30 at Sainsbury's and £1.59 at Tesco, scored only 3/10. Pinto found it "overly sweet" with an "unnaturally bright orange" colour and a "processed" taste. She noted a lingering sweetness and said it was "way more expensive than the other options."
Aldi and Lidl: Budget Options but Still Too Sweet
Aldi's Bramwells Cream of Tomato Soup, at 59p, was described as "probably the closest to Heinz" but with a "watery" texture and fluorescent orange colour. It scored 4/10. Lidl's Newgate Cream of Tomato Soup, also 59p, was similar but slightly darker in colour and scored 4.5/10.
Tesco and M&S: Mid-Range Contenders
Tesco Cream Of Tomato Soup (59p) boasts 91% tomato content and double cream, but Pinto detected a "slightly artificial or chemical taste" and excessive sweetness, scoring it 5/10. M&S Cream of Tomato Soup (60p) was a strong contender with a velvety texture and less sweetness, scoring 7/10. Pinto said it had a "richer tomato taste" and felt like "great-quality soup for the price."
Waitrose Takes Second Place
Waitrose Cream of Tomato Soup (80p) scored 8.5/10, described as "the closest to a homemade bowl of soup." Pinto praised its natural taste, light texture, and deep red colour, noting it wasn't too sweet.
Sainsbury's Wins with 9/10 at Just 59p
Sainsbury's Cream of Tomato Soup (59p) topped the test with a 9/10. Pinto said: "For the quality and price, Sainsbury's wins this week's taste test. It didn't taste too sweet or too salty, and it felt light without being sickly even after a full bowl, while still being comforting." She highlighted its smooth, velvety texture and balanced sweetness and acidity.
