The best baked beans, tried and tasted, received from Saga, 2026 02 21

[Colin Howard]

,

We had a piece about baked beans last September, the article then gave a
great deal more information, here, we basically have a ranking.

Do beans really mean Heinz? To find out how other brands compare to the
nation's favourite baked beans, we put the top tins to the test.
By Saga Magazine | Published - 26 Jan 2026

1. Winner: Asda Baked Beans

410g, RRP: 42p

The generous size of the haricots made up for a lack in quantity. This had
an excellent texture and was rich with tomato flavour. Simply seasoned, it
struck all the right notes, while the deep orange hue enhanced its look.

Delicious at a great price. Our top pick.

Rating: 9/10

2. M&S Baked Beans

400g, RRP: 45p

Despite a mix of bean sizes, this was ample and satisfying, with a
wonderfully soft texture.

The spices were well-balanced, adding a gentle zing which complemented the
rich tomato flavour. The creamy sauce coated the beans nicely. Good value
too.

Rating: 8/10

3. Branston Baked Beans

410g, RRP: £1

Firm, well-sized beans in a thick, rich sauce.

Peppery paprika undertones gave the sauce a bolder character, but this
flavouring may not appeal to everyone.

Rating: 8/10

4. Co-op Baked Beans

400g, RRP: 45p

Ample, generously sized beans. The sauce was smooth and creamy, though a
little lighter and less rich than others.

A solid, well-balanced option which focuses on simplicity rather than
indulgence. Excellent everyday baked beans.

Rating: 8/10

5. Heinz Beans

415g, RRP: £1.40

Everyone knows this staple, with its soft beans in a pale, sweet tomato
sauce. However, we found it has some serious competitors, especially given
the price.

Rating: 7/10

6. Aldi Bramwells Baked Beans

410g, RRP: 40p

A rich colour made these visually appealing, but the runny sauce lacked
depth.

The mixed-size beans were on the hard side, giving a disappointing texture.
A subtle spice aftertaste added some interest but not much.

Rating: 7/10

7. Essential Waitrose Baked Beans

420g, RRP: 55p

Plentiful in quantity and a little firmer than Heinz, the beans looked very
appetising in the dark, rich sauce.

Less sweet and offering a slight tang of spice, it was hearty and satisfying
but a little lacking in tomato flavour.

Rating: 6/10

Reviews by mother and daughter team Diana Redfern and Emma Gill.

Colin Howard, living in Southern England.