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Lidl Tops Many UK Mince Pie Taste Tests as Verdicts Vary

Reviewers say budget supermarket pies offer standout value in informal tastings, with no consensus winner.

Overview

  • Birmingham Live’s latest comparison crowned Lidl the clear winner on flavour and price, outperforming Mr Kipling and a pricier M&S option.
  • The Daily Record’s tester could not split Lidl and Tesco after sampling six supermarkets, citing punchy spice and generous fillings.
  • Other outlets named different favourites, with Waitrose leading in The Times and the Mirror, as The Times also noted Morrisons’ unusually large pies and no sign of shrinkflation.
  • Prices clustered around £1.25 for six at discounters, about £3 for basic M&S boxes, and much higher for artisan picks highlighted by The Times that ranged into double digits.
  • Judges weighed pastry texture, spice and fruit balance, and filling depth, while several reviews emphasized the unscientific, preference-driven nature of these seasonal tests.