M&S fish fingers scored a perfect 5/5 in a taste test, outperforming Birds Eye, which received 4/5. The test compared several leading supermarket own-brand fish fingers to determine whether cheaper alternatives can match the well-known brands.
How the test was conducted
Emily Malia cooked all fish fingers for approximately 12-14 minutes at 200 degrees in the oven to ensure a fair comparison. Alternative cooking methods, such as frying, were also noted as possible options.
The lineup included Asda (£1.12), M&S (£2.50), Sainsbury's (80p), Birds Eye (£2.10), and Tesco (£1.15).
Results by brand
Asda - 3/5: The classic orange-coloured breadcrumbs were crispy and crumbly, but the overall flavour was lacking. The fish flavour was noticeably subtle, though the texture offered a melt-in-your-mouth quality once the crispy coating was penetrated.
M&S - 5/5: This was recognised as a premium fish finger, excelling in flavour with a considerably stronger and chewier texture. The batter was crispy yet thinner than Asda's, and despite the £2.50 price tag being more expensive than Birds Eye, it was deemed worth the additional expense.
Sainsbury's - 2/5: Nearly half the thickness of alternatives like M&S, this product felt thin and cheap with a higher breadcrumb-to-fish ratio. The flavour was similar to Asda's, lacking much taste, and the texture was mediocre. Grilling might produce better results, and at just 80p, it was considered worth trying.
Birds Eye - 4/5: These were delicious, noticeably thinner and paler, but significantly chewier and bursting with more flavour. The coating was crispier and less crumbly, more reminiscent of a traditional fish finger. While M&S edged ahead, Birds Eye ran it close and remains a reliable option.
Tesco - 4/5: At a wallet-friendly price, these offered a creamy fish flavour rather than a robust taste, appealing to those who prefer something less intense. However, the result was somewhat soggier than rivals, with the exterior lacking crunch and the fish fingers breaking apart easily.
Impact
The taste test suggests that shoppers can save money by choosing supermarket own-brand fish fingers, with M&S emerging as the top choice despite its premium price.
