Supermarket orange squash that ‘tastes like nostalgia’ crowned better than Robinsons
Supermarket Orange Squash That ‘Tastes Like Nostalgia’ Crowned Better Than Robinsons
Supermarket orange squash that tastes like - For many consumers, the grocery store aisle is a familiar terrain where certain products become household staples. Brands like Heinz baked beans or Cadbury chocolate often occupy a special place in our shopping routines, but what about orange squash? While Robinsons has long been the go-to name for this citrusy beverage, a recent blind taste test suggests that some supermarket own-brand options may be stealing the spotlight.
A Surprising Taste Test Result
When Metro set out to investigate the quality of orange squash across major supermarkets, the goal was simple: to determine which product best met the criteria of taste, aroma, and strength. The outcome, however, challenged long-held assumptions. Asda’s Quadruple Strength Orange Squash emerged as the clear victor, surpassing even the iconic Robinsons in the final scoring.
The test involved a panel of tasters who evaluated each squash under blind conditions, ensuring no preconceived notions influenced their judgments. With brands such as Tesco, Aldi, Lidl, Asda, Co-op, M&S, Waitrose, and Sainsbury’s all in the mix, the results were as varied as they were surprising. While Robinsons retained its traditional reputation, it narrowly missed the top spot, securing second place with a score of 61 out of 100.
Asda Takes the Lead
Asda’s Quadruple Strength Orange Squash, priced at £1.84 for a 1.5L bottle, scored highly across multiple categories. Tasters praised its nostalgic flavor, describing it as “just right” in terms of sweetness and “exactly how you’d want a glass of orange squash to taste.” Some even likened its mouthfeel to a “light” and “good” experience, while others noted its aroma reminded them of fresh oranges.
“It tastes exactly how you’d want a glass of orange squash to taste,” one reviewer remarked. “The flavor transported me straight back to childhood birthday parties.”
Interestingly, the product’s strength—rated 17 out of 25—was a standout feature. Its quadruple-strength formulation seemed to balance intensity and flavor more effectively than its competitors, earning it a top ranking in the test.
Robinsons: A Close Second
Though Robinsons came second, it still managed to capture the imagination of many. The classic brand, available at £1.25 for a 1L bottle (with a Clubcard discount at Tesco), received a score of 61. While tasters appreciated its “nice” and “inoffensive” taste, they noted its strength as a drawback, calling it “a tad weak” compared to the more robust options.
“The Robinsons Orange Squash has a pleasant, familiar flavor, but it lacks the punch that modern consumers might expect,” said one participant.
Its double-strength formula, though standard for decades, was seen as a bit dated in comparison to the quadruple-strength varieties that dominated the top tiers of the test.
Other Competitors and Their Scores
Lidl’s Lindhouse Double Strength Orange Squash and Aldi’s Sun Quench Double Strength were the next closest contenders, both scoring 58 points. Despite having the same total, the two differed in their strengths: Lidl excelled in taste and aroma, while Aldi’s version offered a stronger flavor profile. However, both were praised for their affordability, with prices under £1, making them appealing options for budget-conscious shoppers.
Sainsbury’s and Co-op’s own-brand drinks followed, earning a joint score of 55. While Co-op narrowly edged out Sainsbury’s in taste (16 vs. 14 points), both were described as having a “perfect strength” that, for some, was slightly overwhelming. Waitrose came in fourth with a score of 53, and its squash was noted for being “too strong” with a “very citrussy smell” and a “slight, sharp tang.”
M&S and Tesco: The Underperformers
At the bottom of the scale were M&S and Tesco, each earning just 45 points. M&S’s product was criticized for its medicinal aftertaste, with one taster comparing it to Berocca. Others found it “very weak” and “forgettable,” suggesting it might not satisfy even the most casual of consumers. Tesco, meanwhile, was dubbed the “most artificial” tasting, with its squash lacking the natural vibrancy of its rivals.
“The M&S Orange Squash was like drinking medicine,” another reviewer noted. “It had a strange, metallic note that made it hard to enjoy.”
Both brands were also outperformed in the value-for-money category, with prices significantly higher than those of Asda, Lidl, and Aldi. For example, Tesco’s 750ml bottle cost £1.80, while Asda’s 1.5L bottle was just £1.84—a stark contrast in cost-effectiveness.
Nostalgia and Modern Preferences
One of the most intriguing aspects of the test was the emotional connection some tasters felt with Asda’s product. Described as “nostalgic,” it seemed to evoke memories of childhood snacks or family gatherings, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. This emotional resonance may explain why it outperformed the more established Robinsons in both taste and overall appeal.
Meanwhile, the results highlighted a shift in consumer expectations. While classic brands still hold a loyal following, the rise of supermarket own-label products suggests that affordability and flavor innovation are now key drivers in the market. Asda’s success, in particular, demonstrated that a well-balanced formula could capture the hearts of even the most seasoned shoppers.
Why This Matters for Supermarkets
For supermarkets, the taste test underscores the importance of product differentiation in a competitive market. While pricing remains a critical factor, the sensory experience—particularly the balance of sweetness, strength, and aroma—appears to be the deciding element for many buyers. Asda’s Quadruple Strength Orange Squash, with its nostalgic appeal and robust flavor, seems to have struck the right chord.
However, the test also revealed that not all brands are created equal. Even within the own-brand category, there was a noticeable variance in quality, with Lidl and Aldi offering distinct advantages depending on the criteria. This diversity means consumers have more options than ever, but it also requires them to be discerning about which products truly deliver.
The Future of Orange Squash
As the demand for affordable, high-quality products grows, the results of this test could influence future market trends. Supermarkets may increasingly focus on refining their own-brand offerings to match or exceed the standards of traditional brands. For now, though, Asda’s Orange Squash has proven that it can rival even the most iconic names in the beverage aisle.
Meanwhile, brands like Robinsons may need to adapt to stay relevant. While their classic formula still has a loyal fanbase, the competition from own-brand alternatives suggests that a touch of innovation could be the key to maintaining market share.
Whether you’re a nostalgic fan of traditional flavors or a budget-conscious shopper seeking the best value, the results of this test provide a fresh perspective on the world of orange squash. Asda’s victory may be a sign of changing tides, but for now, it’s the brand that’s proving it’s not just about the price—it’s also about the taste that lingers long after the drink is finished.
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