Dips & Spreads - Other

Best Dips & Spreads in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Try, and How to Save

Why dips and spreads are pantry heroes

Dips and spreads are the unsung sidekicks of grocery shopping: they rescue snacks, jazz up sandwiches, and turn a dull plate into a party on a plate. Whether you’re dipping crisps, slathering on toast, or stirring through a salad, the right jar can lift a meal in seconds. Think of them like paint for the culinary canvas—one swipe and the whole picture changes.

Where to buy dips & spreads in the UK

If you’re hunting for the best range, price, or speciality options, the UK has a strong lineup of supermarkets and specialty stores. From budget ranges to artisan jars, these retailers stock everything from hummus and guacamole to chutneys, nut butters, and luxuriant cheese spreads. Below I’ve rounded up top options so you can shop smarter and taste better.

Tesco

Tesco is a go-to for everyday dips and spreads, offering a wide range across its Extra, Superstore, and online catalogue. You’ll find everything from economy tubs of hummus to premium pesto and seasonal limited-edition flavours. Tesco often sells tubs in sizes like 8 oz and 12 oz, making it convenient for single people or families alike.

Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s sits comfortably between budget and premium. Their own-brand dips are dependable, while their Taste the Difference line features richer, more experimental spreads—think sun-dried tomato tapenade or truffle mayo. Look for multi-buy offers to save on jars that are about 10 oz to 16 oz in size.

Asda

Asda is great if value is a priority. You’ll find large 16 oz to 24 oz tubs ideal for parties and budget-friendly versions of popular dips. They also stock a solid selection of vegan spreads and budget gourmet options under their Extra Special range.

Morrisons

Morrisons combines competitive pricing with seasonal favourites. Their deli counters often have freshly made dips by weight, which is useful when you want just a little taste—think 3 oz samples to try before committing to a full 12 oz jar.

Aldi and Lidl

Don’t underestimate the discount giants. Aldi and Lidl rotate special buys and limited-time gourmet ranges that punch well above their price. You can snag artisan-style spreads or international dips like babaganoush in 8 oz to 12 oz sizes for a fraction of supermarket prices.

Waitrose and Marks & Spencer

If you want premium and carefully sourced ingredients, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer are reliable picks. Their branded and own-label selections include craft dips and unique spreads—think smoked trout mousse, rare chutneys, and small-batch nut butters—in elegant 6 oz to 10 oz jars that make excellent hostess gifts.

Ocado and online specialists

Ocado is a treasure trove for hard-to-find and premium dips, especially if you’re shopping for speciality brands or larger ranges of vegan and gluten-free options. Online specialty stores like Planet Organic and select delis also sell jars and tubs in a variety of sizes, offering doorstep convenience when you’re not near a big supermarket.

Local delis and farmers’ markets

For something handcrafted and unique, check local delis and farmers’ markets. Artisanal spreads often come in smaller jars—3 oz to 8 oz—but the flavour payoff can be huge. These spots are ideal for discovering regional chutneys, spice-forward relishes, and small-batch nut butters that supermarkets don’t always carry.

Budget buys vs premium jars: how to decide

Not every occasion needs a fancy jar. For casual snacking or kids’ sandwiches, store-brand tubs from Tesco or Asda do the job without blowing the weekly shop budget. For dinner parties or gifts, splurge on something from Waitrose or a boutique deli—those 6 oz to 10 oz jars often deliver a richer, more complex flavour that guests notice.

Vegan and allergy-friendly options

The market for vegan spreads and allergy-aware dips has exploded. Brands and supermarkets now offer vegan mayonnaise, bean-based hummuses, and nut-free seed butters. If you or someone you feed has allergies, check labels and try specialist lines from Ocado or health-food stores—many products are clearly marked and available in 8 oz to 12 oz jars tailored to plant-based diets.

Top store picks for specific needs

Shopping with a goal makes choices easier. Here are quick store-focused recommendations depending on what you want:

Best for parties

Asda and Tesco offer large tubs of dip—think 16 oz to 24 oz—that stretch to feed a crowd without costing much. Throw in a few flavours and you’re set for game night or a family gathering.

Best for healthy options

Sainsbury’s and Waitrose feature hummus varieties with added vegetables or lower-fat recipes. Look for tubs around 8 oz if you’re trying a new flavour without wasting food.

Best for gourmet or unique flavours

Marks & Spencer and independent delis are where you’ll find truffle spreads, smoked cheese dips, and artisan chutneys in elegant 6 oz to 10 oz jars that elevate a simple board or sandwich.

Best for value

Aldi and Lidl often beat the big chains on price for comparable quality. Their weekly Specialbuys sometimes include international-style dips in 8 oz jars at bargain prices.

Reading labels like a pro

Labels tell the story behind the jar. Look for clear ingredient lists, allergens in bold, and percentages of key ingredients when applicable. If a product boasts “high protein” or “low fat,” check serving sizes—many claim benefits per 1 oz serving that don’t reflect how much you’ll actually eat. Always compare price per ounce to spot true value.

Storage and shelf life tips

Proper storage keeps dips tasting fresh longer. Once opened, many refrigerated dips last around 5 to 7 days, depending on preservatives and ingredients. If a jar says “use within 5 days,” take it seriously. For unopened commercial jars, check best-before dates and store them in a cool, dark cupboard. Homemade or deli tubs often have shorter lives, so plan portions to avoid waste.

Pairing ideas: what goes with your dip

Pairing is half the fun. Hummus loves warm pita or carrot sticks; cream cheese–based spreads pair brilliantly with crisp cucumber slices, and a spicy chutney can transform a roast sandwich into something sensational. Don’t be afraid to mix: try a dollop of pesto on tomato soup or swirl a nut butter into your morning oats for a flavour boost.

Recipes and creative uses

Dips and spreads can be the base for quick recipes. Use 8 oz of hummus thinned with a splash of olive oil as a salad dressing, or stir a 6 oz jar of sun-dried tomato pesto into hot pasta for an instant sauce. A spoonful of chutney mixed into a vinaigrette adds sweetness and depth, and spreads make excellent sandwich bases instead of butter or mayo.

Seasonal picks and limited editions

Keep an eye on seasonal ranges—supermarkets roll out limited-edition flavours around holidays and summer BBQ season. These special jars can be a fun way to try new flavour profiles without committing to a regular purchase. If you find a seasonal gem, consider buying an extra jar for later; some keep well unopened for months.

How to compare prices online

Shopping online is a great way to compare unit prices quickly. Look for advertised ounces per jar and do the math: price divided by ounces gives you the cost per ounce. This reveals whether that fancy 6 oz jar is really better value than a cheaper 12 oz tub. Comparison sites and supermarket online pages often show price per unit—use those numbers to shop like a pro.

Sustainability and packaging

Glass jars are easier to recycle and often reusable as storage, while plastic tubs may be lighter and cheaper but less eco-friendly. Many premium brands now offer refill schemes or encourage reusing jars, so look for recycling icons or in-store return programmes if sustainability matters to you.

Making the most of tastings and deli counters

Deli counters are perfect for testing before committing to a jar. Ask for a small sample—3 oz is often enough to know if you love it. Some supermarkets also do tastings on weekends; that’s your chance to discover handcrafted flavours that aren’t stocked widely yet.

Final shopping checklist

Before you click buy or head to the shop, ask yourself: Who am I cooking for? Will this be a single-use tub or a family-sized party pick? Do any diners have allergies? Do I want vegan, low-fat, or gourmet? Answering these questions saves money, reduces waste, and ensures you choose jars that actually get eaten.

Conclusion

Dips and spreads are small but mighty pantry items that deliver big flavour with minimal fuss. From budget-friendly tubs at discount supermarkets to small-batch jars from specialist delis, the UK market offers something for every taste and budget. Shop with an eye on price per ounce, try samples where you can, and don’t be afraid to mix and match flavours—your snack game will thank you. Happy dipping!