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Budget Brews Beat Big Brands in Taste Test
5 Oct
Summary
- Supermarket own-brand teas outperformed major brands in a blind taste test.
- Top-scoring teas from Sainsbury's, Waitrose, and Co-op cost just 2p per cup.
- Yorkshire Tea, the most expensive at 5p, scored highest among named brands.

Consumer experts recently conducted a blind taste test to determine the best value and taste among popular teabags. The results indicate that supermarket own-brand teas frequently rival, and often surpass, established household names in quality.
Specifically, teas from Sainsbury's, Waitrose, and Co-op were highlighted as top performers. These budget-friendly options, costing approximately 2p per teabag, received high ratings for their colour, aroma, and flavour. Around two-thirds of taste testers indicated they would happily make these supermarket brands their regular choice.
Leading brands also participated in the extensive trial. Yorkshire Tea, priced at 5p per bag, achieved the highest score among the named brands, with many testers appreciating its flavour and aroma. However, nearly a third found it too bitter. Other popular brands like PG Tips and Tetley also featured, with testers commenting on their colour and bitterness.
Overall, the taste test demonstrated that excellent tea experiences are accessible at a lower cost, challenging the notion that premium pricing equates to superior taste.