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From a dollop on your fish and chips to the finishing touch on a burger, tomato ketchup is a true cupboard staple in the UK. Yet, a quick look at the options available shows that not all ketchups are created equal. With choices ranging from classic family favourites to spicy, low-sugar and artisan varieties, finding the right bottle can be surprisingly complex.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the choices. We will look at what to consider when you buy tomato ketchup online and highlight a few popular options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, whether you're after a classic taste or something with a bit more of a kick.
Before diving into specific products, here are a few practical points to consider that can help you make a more informed choice.
The foundation of any good ketchup is, of course, tomatoes. The quantity of tomatoes used to make 100g of the final product is a strong indicator of its flavour intensity. A higher tomato content, such as 200g of tomatoes per 100g of ketchup, often results in a richer, more robust taste. Ketchup with a lower tomato content may rely more heavily on sugar and vinegar for its flavour profile.
Many of us are paying closer attention to the sugar and salt in our diets. Ketchup recipes can vary significantly in this regard. If you are looking for a healthier option, consider a no sugar ketchup or a low salt ketchup. These are often sweetened with alternatives or rely on the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Always check the nutritional information on the label, usually listed per 100g, to make a clear comparison.
While the classic sweet and tangy flavour is what most people expect, there are other options available. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy tomato ketchup infused with chilli can add an exciting twist to meals. Others might prefer a ketchup with a more pronounced vinegar tang or one that uses different spices for a more complex flavour.
Here are four different tomato ketchups that cater to a range of preferences, from the classic family choice to options for the health-conscious and the adventurous eater.
Why It Stands Out: This is the iconic Heinz tomato ketchup that has been a fixture on British tables for generations. Its familiar balance of sweet, tangy and savoury notes comes from a recipe that uses 148g of tomatoes per 100g of ketchup. It’s a dependable, all-purpose condiment that delivers a consistent taste.
Pros:
Who is it for? Families and individuals who appreciate the traditional, time-honoured taste of classic ketchup. It’s the go-to choice for a reliable ketchup for chips, burgers and bacon sandwiches.
Why It Stands Out: This version offers the familiar Heinz taste profile but is formulated for those looking to reduce their intake of added sugar and salt. It uses a sweetener (Sucralose) to achieve its taste and packs in 200g of tomatoes per 100g of ketchup, which helps maintain a rich flavour.
Pros:
Who is it for? Anyone seeking a no sugar ketchup or low salt ketchup without wanting to stray too far from the classic flavour they know. It’s a practical choice for families wanting to make healthier swaps.
Why It Stands Out: The Stokes real tomato ketchup is aimed at those who prioritise ingredient quality and flavour depth. The brand states it uses 200g of juicy Mediterranean tomatoes for every 100g of ketchup, resulting in a noticeably rich and thick sauce. It is sweetened with unrefined raw cane sugar for a more complex taste.
Pros:
Who is it for? Food enthusiasts who see ketchup as more than just a condiment and are willing to invest in a premium product. Its robust flavour is excellent for complementing high-quality sausages, homemade burgers and chunky chips.
Why It Stands Out: For those who like their food with a bit of a kick, this spicy tomato ketchup from Grace offers a well-balanced solution. It combines the traditional sweet and tangy ketchup base with a noticeable warmth from chilli powder, creating a flavour that is both familiar and exciting.
Pros:
Who is it for? Anyone looking to move beyond standard ketchup and add some gentle heat to their meals. It’s a great match for fried chicken, wedges and barbecue dishes.
The world of ketchup is vast, with many other variations to discover, including organic recipes, different bottle sizes and other unique flavour combinations. If you haven't found the perfect match here, why not explore our full range?
Browse our complete collection of tomato ketchup sauce here.
1. What is the difference between tomato ketchup and tomato sauce in the UK? In the UK, "tomato ketchup" typically refers to the thick, sweet and tangy condiment made from tomatoes, sugar, vinegar and spices. "Tomato sauce" can be a broader term, often referring to a thinner, simpler sauce used for cooking (like a passata or pasta sauce) or, in some contexts, a table sauce similar to ketchup but often with a different consistency or recipe.
2. What makes a good ketchup for chips? A good ketchup for chips generally has a thick consistency that clings well to the potato without making it soggy. A balanced flavour profile—not too sweet and not too vinegary—is also key, as it should complement the salty, savoury taste of the chips rather than overpower it.
3. How should I store tomato ketchup after opening? Once opened, it is recommended to store tomato ketchup in the refrigerator with the cap tightly sealed. This helps to maintain its freshness, flavour and thick consistency. Most brands suggest consuming it within 8 weeks of opening. Always check the packaging for specific storage instructions.