For newcomers to Spain, do you often feel overwhelmed when entering the refrigerated section of supermarkets? Especially when faced with sliced ham, a small box of branded products can cost several euros, while the supermarket’s own-brand “white label” options are much cheaper, but you might worry about quality. Today, let’s talk about whether these supermarket own-brand hams are worth buying and which ones are recommended.
First, it’s important to clarify that “own brand” means the supermarket’s private label. Often, these products are produced by well-known manufacturers but just come with different packaging. So the old idea that own brand = poor quality is outdated. For our everyday needs like making a bocadillo or pairing with melon, own-brand ham slices offer excellent value for money and are definitely a top choice!
Brief Review of Own-Brand Sliced Ham from Major Supermarkets
Here’s my personal experience with the own-brand hams from several mainstream supermarkets. Of course, taste is subjective, so take this as a reference.
Mercadona
Mercadona’s Hacendado brand is a national favorite. Their Jamón Serrano has a very consistent flavor and is a safe bet. The price is moderate, and the meat quality and saltiness are well balanced, suitable for eating directly or cooking. If you’re new and unsure which to buy, blindly choosing Hacendado usually won’t go wrong, as noted in 5j Spanish ham own brand.
Carrefour
Carrefour offers a wider range, from the basic Carrefour Discount, to Carrefour Sensation, up to the premium “De Nuestra Tierra” series, catering to different budgets. Personally, I recommend the standard blue-packaged Carrefour own brand; its quality is similar to Mercadona’s but with frequent promotions like half-price on the second item, so it’s worth stocking up.
Lidl
Lidl’s sliced ham is a hidden gem in my opinion! Their own brand “Realvalle” often surprises, especially when “Reserva” level hams appear at prices similar to regular ones. These have a richer flavor and a stronger oily aroma. Keep an eye out when shopping at Lidl.
For clarity, here is a simple comparison table:
| Supermarket | Own Brand | Reference Price | Personal Summary |
|---|
| Mercadona | Hacendado | €1.5 - €2.5 | Consistent quality, beginner’s choice |
| Carrefour | Carrefour | €1.4 - €3.0 | Diverse options, many promotions |
| Lidl | Realvalle | €1.3 - €2.8 | Occasional surprises, high value |
| Dia | lonchas finas | €1.2 - €2.0 | Cheap, suitable for cooking |
A few final buying tips: First, try to choose products labeled Reserva or Gran Reserva; even in own brands, this indicates longer curing time and better flavor. Second, inspect the fat distribution through transparent packaging; more even fat distribution usually means smoother texture. Third, don’t be afraid to try different products. This time try the own brand, red label, and black label Spanish ham; next time pick another one, and soon you’ll find your favorite ham staple!
Do you have any hidden gem supermarket ham recommendations? Or any bad experiences? Feel free to share in the comments!
