Taste-testers compare Coca-Cola to Aldi, Lidl, Tesco and M&S brands - result is surprising

As grocery costs continue to climb, families are seeking ways to tighten their belts and reduce expenses. This has led to a surge in supermarket own brands aiming to replicate the products of well-known brands, often at a significantly lower price.

Yet, consumers often ponder whether they're compromising on flavour for affordability. Participants at Channel 5's 'Supermarket Own-Brands: The Big Taste Test' have been rigorously evaluating these wallet-friendly options.

In a recent session, a three-person panel sampled eight different cola drinks, including the iconic Coca-Cola and alternatives from Aldi, Sainsbury's, Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Marks and Spencer, and Lidl.

Contrary to expectations, the panellists were taken aback when a 49p bottle emerged as the victor in a blind taste test, especially after some contenders were deemed "over carbonated" or the opposite, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Securing two out of three votes, Aldi's VIVE Cola was declared the top choice by the panel. One taster remarked: "My favourite is A and I think that is Coca-Cola. It tastes more full than the other ones and with genuine coke it has a distinctive sweetness and taste about it. It was definitely my firm favourite."

Another judge commented that VIVE Cola was "sweet" and "full", also noting that it "tasted nice". The original Coca-Cola was ranked second by the taste testers from the eight beverages tested.

Aldi's VIVE Cola is available in 2L bottles and also in six-packs of 330ml cans. The budget supermarket offers zero sugar and diet options, as well as a cherry version.