A comparison of avocados from four major UK supermarkets found notable differences in quality and value. One fruit developed visible mould before it could be tasted, while another was described as lacking in flavour.
Sainsbury's and Morrisons offer reliable options
Sainsbury's sold ripe and ready avocados at £1.50 for two, with a single large specimen priced at 95p and a medium at 69p. The fruit was well-proportioned and close to the preferred level of ripeness, though refrigeration beyond a day or two was not recommended. It had a smooth texture, sliced and spread easily, and delivered the typical avocado flavour.
Morrisons matched Sainsbury's pricing, though without the 69p medium option. Quality, ripeness and size were broadly comparable. Both retailers provided exactly what one would expect from an avocado, suitable for toast, salads or blending into a sauce, at a reasonably competitive price point.
Tesco avocado develops mould
Tesco's avocados matched the price of Morrisons and Sainsbury's but proved to be something of a lottery. The first was perfectly ordinary, but the second was never eaten. Despite Tesco's website stating the avocados should last at least two days in the fridge, mould appeared on the skin by the second day, and the fruit was discarded without checking whether the flesh had browned.
Co-op disappoints despite higher price
Co-op charged £2 for a twin pack of ripe and ready avocados, 50p more than its rivals. Despite the higher price, the fruit was described as lacking in flavour and noticeably more fibrous than the alternatives. It was still a decent size and perfectly ripe, so there was little room for complaint, particularly after the Tesco issue.
