At IN Food Marketing, we relish the opportunity to dive into food trends, and few condiments are as universally beloved as ketchup. This tomato-based staple graces tables nationwide, from backyard barbecues to diner counters. We decided it was time to squeeze out the truth: which ketchup truly cuts the mustard?
THE BRANDS
For our blind taste test, we selected four notable ketchup brands:
Heinz
A household name synonymous with ketchup.
Price per ounce: $0.17
Curt’s Special Recipe Ketchup
A small-batch, artisanal contender.
Price per ounce: $0.40
Hunts
A classic brand with a long-standing presence.
Price per ounce: $0.09
Whataburger
A relative newcomer with origins from a popular southern fast food chain.
Price per ounce: $0.14
THE VERDICT
Flavor: The results were as rich as the ketchups themselves.
- Whataburger emerged as the top tomato, with testers praising its balanced sweetness and tang.
- Heinz followed closely, noted for its classic flavor and bright red hue.
- Hunt’s received mixed reviews, with some finding it too “vinegary” for their taste.
- Curt’s Special Recipe Ketchup was polarizing; its chunky texture and garlic notes delighted some but deterred others.
Packaging Design: When it came to shelf appeal:
- Heinz‘s iconic design stood out, earning top marks for its timeless look.
- Whataburger‘s packaging was appreciated for its bold branding, but some said it looked like a generic brand.
- Hunts and Curt’s received lower scores, with feedback suggesting room for modernization for both.
FINAL THOUGHTS
In the great ketchup debate, Whataburger takes the crown for taste, while Heinz has the most shelf appeal. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or seeking something new, there’s a ketchup out there to suit your needs. Remember to check back in for future brand tests or other articles to “ketchup” with food marketing trends! Explore our previous brand tests here.
