A taste test of UK supermarket own-brand cornflakes has revealed that two cheaper alternatives outperform Kellogg's, the long-standing market leader. Tesco and Morrisons own-brand cornflakes tied for first place, with Tesco edging ahead on price at just 95p for a 500g box.
Taste Test Methodology
The test compared seven brands: Kellogg's, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, M&S, Morrisons, and Asda. Judging criteria were flavour, crunchiness, and value for money. Each brand was assessed by the same taster, a lifelong Kellogg's consumer.
Kellogg's: Familiar but Costly
Kellogg's cornflakes scored 4/5 for their classic sweet flavour and crunch, evoking childhood memories. At 378kcal per 100g, they were the lowest calorie option but cost £2 for a 250g box, making them the most expensive per gram. The taster noted that while delicious, the price is a significant drawback.
Tesco and Morrisons: Joint Winners
Tesco's own brand scored 4/5, praised as the second crunchiest and most reminiscent of Kellogg's in flavour. At 95p for 500g, it was the most affordable option. Morrisons also scored 4/5, described as the crunchiest with a darker, slightly bitter flavour profile, priced at £1.90 for 500g. The taster concluded they would happily swap Kellogg's for either, noting the wallet would be fuller.
M&S One-Ingredient Cornflakes: A Surprising Failure
Marks and Spencer's one-ingredient cornflakes, made solely from corn, scored just 1.5/5. The taster described them as resembling chips or puffcorn in texture and shape, too far a departure from traditional cornflakes. At £2.65 for 325g, they were also the second most expensive.
Other Brands: Mixed Results
Waitrose scored 3/5, with a distinct flavour but lacking crunch, priced at £1 for 500g. Sainsbury's scored 2.5/5, criticised for being thin, least crunchy, and tasting slightly artificial, at £1.15 for 500g. Asda scored 2/5, described as bland with a thin texture, also at £1.15 for 500g.
Verdict: Cheaper Alternatives Triumph
The taster declared Tesco and Morrisons joint winners, with Tesco slightly ahead on price. Asda came last, followed by Sainsbury's. The M&S cornflakes were deemed too unconventional. The taster affirmed they would happily switch from Kellogg's to either Tesco or Morrisons, stating, 'I wouldn't be able to tell much of a difference if I made the swap - except that my wallet would still be a little fuller.'
