Few groceries have been immune from price rises in recent years, and cheese is no exception. The cost of living crisis has driven up prices, with a 42 percent hike in cheese prices in the 12 months leading up to April 2023 (according to the Office for National Statistics). While prices have fallen slightly since then, shoppers are still looking for ways to save money on their grocery bills.
To find the best value cheddar, the Manchester Evening News conducted a taste test of mature cheddar from six major supermarkets: Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, and Lidl. The cheese was cut into blocks to ensure a fair comparison in appearance and texture, and the price per 100g was used to account for the varying pack sizes.
The budget cheddar options were remarkably similar in price, with Aldi, Lidl, Sainsbury’s, and Asda all coming in at 54p per 100g. Morrisons and Tesco were slightly more expensive at 62p per 100g. This compares favorably to premium brands like Cathedral City, which costs around £1 per 100g.
The taste test revealed a range of opinions on the different brands. Some enjoyed the texture and taste of Lidl’s cheddar, while others detected a bitter note. Tesco’s offering was deemed somewhat bland by some, although others praised its creamy texture. Aldi’s and Asda’s cheddars were considered satisfactory, with Asda’s described as slightly powdery.
Sainsbury’s Stamford Street Co cheddar impressed with its appearance and robust flavor, earning it second place in the taste test. However, the crown went to Morrisons’ Savers cheese. The judges lauded its crumbly, flavorful, and creamy texture, deeming it the best overall cheddar. At £2.18 for a 350g block, it’s a budget-friendly option that won’t break the bank.
Here’s a breakdown of the contenders:
*
Aldi Everyday, Essentials:
900g, £4.88, 54p per 100g*
Lidl, Simply:
900g, £4.88, 54p per 100g*
Sainsbury’s, Stamford Street Co:
600g, £3.25, 54p per 100g*
Asda, Just Essentials:
825g, £4.47, 54p per 100g*
Morrisons, Savers:
350g, £2.18, 62p per 100g*
