In the midst of the ongoing cost of living crisis, choosing the most budget-friendly supermarket is a necessity for many. Ever wondered about the cleanliness of your go-to supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl? The wait is over as BritSuperstore’s comprehensive UK-wide study has unveiled the country’s cleanest and dirtiest supermarkets.

Dirtiest Supermarket:

Taking the bottom spot with a score of 4.89 out of five stars in food hygiene ratings is Iceland. Despite being dubbed the dirtiest, it’s crucial to note that Iceland’s score remains relatively high, indicating that it may not be a bad place to shop. Known for its innovative frozen offerings, such as the hash brown quarter pounders that drove shoppers wild, Iceland has its own unique appeal.

Cleanest Supermarkets:

Tying for the top spot as the cleanest supermarkets are Aldi and M&S, both earning an impressive hygiene rating of 4.99 out of five stars. Aldi, known as the cheapest supermarket of 2023 according to Which, offers not only exceptional cleanliness but also affordability. With just one Aldi store in need of improvement according to Food Standards Agency inspectors, it stands out as a top choice for shoppers.

Sainsbury’s secures the second spot with a hygiene rating of 4.95, setting a positive tone for the supermarket in the lead-up to Easter. Tesco follows closely in third place with an average hygiene rating of 4.93. Tesco’s recent announcement of double points for Clubcard holders adds to the good news for its customers.

Lidl, which briefly claimed Aldi’s cheapest supermarket crown last year, secures the fourth spot with a hygiene score of 4.9 on average.

Hygiene Precautions:

For those concerned about supermarket cleanliness, BritSuperstore’s expert Richard Price suggests taking precautions. Observing the cleanliness of floors, shelves, and toilets can provide insight into a store’s hygiene practices. Additionally, checking proper storage of perishables and inspecting product expiration dates, meat, and fish can ensure a safe shopping experience.

It’s important to note that supermarkets like Waitrose and Asda were not included in this study’s findings. As consumers navigate the aisles, a heightened awareness of cleanliness can contribute to a safer and more enjoyable shopping experience.