Cheese Test: Aldi, Lidl, and Kaufland’s Grill Cheese Results
As the grill season approaches, many are looking to enhance their barbecues with flavorful cheese options. Stiftung Warentest has conducted a thorough evaluation of various grill cheeses available at major supermarkets, highlighting which products to choose and which ones to avoid.
Overview of the Test
In the recent study, Stiftung Warentest examined 14 different grill cheeses, including five varieties each of Halloumi, herbal versions, and natural cheeses. The testers evaluated these cheeses based on multiple criteria, including appearance, smell, taste, texture, and potential contaminants like spoilage bacteria and mineral oil hydrocarbons.
Among these products, only seven received satisfactory ratings, while two notable products failed miserably, sending a clear message to consumers about what to avoid.
Lidl’s Milbona Halloumi: The Top Performer
The standout product from the test was Milbona Halloumi from Lidl, which achieved an impressive score of 1.9. This cheese captured the testers’ attention with its aromatic flavor, balanced saltiness, and signature mint notes. Its ability to maintain form on the grill and produce the signature “squeak” when bitten into makes it an authentic choice for cheese lovers. Priced at just €1.20 per 100 grams, it combines quality with affordability.
Herb Variants: Alnatura Leads the Pack
When it comes to herbal cheeses, the Alnatura Grill and Pan Cheese emerged victorious. Despite being on the pricier side at €2.16 per 100 grams, its rich flavor profile justified the cost for many consumers. For those looking for a value option, the Creamy Herbal Grill Cheese by Gut & Günstig at Edeka also scored well, coming in at just €1.25 with a “good” rating.
Disappointments from Aldi and Kaufland
Regrettably, products from both Aldi and Kaufland did not fare well in the testing. Specifically, Lyttos Halloumi from Aldi and K-Favourites Halloumi from Kaufland both received ‘poor’ ratings for their tendency to melt and stick to the grill plate, making grilling a frustrating experience. Laboratory analyses indicated these cheeses contained excessive moisture and failed to meet EU regulations regarding authentic Halloumi, which is supposed to be made from milk and mint sourced from Cyprus. Furthermore, the Kaufland product lacked verified sheep’s milk, undermining its authenticity.
Safety Concerns: Chloroform in Rewe’s Product
Another alarming finding was regarding the Brat- und Grilltaler from Rewe Bio. It was discovered that this product contained chloroform in concerning concentrations, potentially due to insufficient cleaning of machinery used during production. While the remaining grill cheeses from Rewe also raised some red flags, it’s essential to pay attention to such safety concerns while shopping.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
While grilling cheese can add deliciousness to your summer barbecues, it’s vital to be informed about what products carry potential risks. The results from Stiftung Warentest clearly indicate that not all grill cheeses are created equal.
Opt for Lidl’s Milbona Halloumi or Alnatura’s Grill Cheese to ensure a tasty and safe grilling experience. Conversely, steer clear of Aldi’s Lyttos Halloumi and Kaufland’s K-Favourites Halloumi, as well as Rewe’s Brat- und Grilltaler, to avoid disappointment on your grill. By making informed choices, you can elevate your summer barbecues with delightful flavors while ensuring safety and quality.
