In a blind taste test of supermarket own-brand tortilla chips, Aldi's Delta Cool Tortilla Chips scored as high as Doritos, while M&S's offering was a major letdown.
The Benchmark: Doritos Cool Original
Doritos Cool Original, priced at £2.50, set the standard, scoring 8/10. The first bite delivers an immediate hit of sour cream, with a subtle tang that gets the taste buds going. The chips are airy, bold, and moreish, with a pleasing crunch.
Aldi: A Strong Contender
Aldi's Delta Cool Tortilla Chips, at just 89p, also scored 8/10. They share a similar appearance to Doritos, with flecks of char and a sandy maize coating. The flavour is stronger, with dominant notes of garlic, cheese, and tomato, but lacks the tangy note that defines Doritos. Despite this, they put up a remarkably strong fight against the original.
Tesco and Sainsbury's: Falling Short
Tesco's Cool Tortilla Chips (89p) scored 4/10. The flavour profile leans heavily on creamy tomato, garlic, and pepper, a combination found odd. The tanginess veers into sourness, which is not pleasant.
Sainsbury's Cool Tortillas Chips (89p) scored 5/10. They have a curved edge and a brighter yellow hue, standing apart in appearance. The flavour is described simply as "cool" and brings to mind pub nachos. They are not bad, but not something to reach back into the bag for without toppings.
M&S: A Disappointment
M&S Cream Cool Tortilla Chips (£1.30) scored 3/10. Despite being a premium supermarket, the chips have a notable lack of flavour, with none of the yoghurt, garlic, tomatoes, or cheddar detectable. The texture verges on staleness, with a slight chewiness and no satisfying crunch. The price is hard to justify when better options are available for under a pound.
