This is the ultimate ranking of common ketchup brands in Kenya from worst to best. Find out which ketchups are worth your money and which ones to avoid. Honest reviews, taste tests, and more!
Ketchup is a staple in many kitchens, but not all ketchups are created equal. In this post, we’re looking into the world of ketchup, calling out the mediocre ones that just don’t cut it, and celebrating the standouts that truly deserve a spot on your table.
Whether you’re a ketchup connoisseur or just looking for the best option for your fries, i’ve got you covered with honest, no-holds-barred reviews. Let’s get into it!
5. Ma Cuisine
I have to say, even the Carrefour supermarket brand ketchup is light years ahead of Ma Cuisine Ketchup. This stuff has to be the worst ketchup I’ve ever tasted. Honestly, I’m not even sure it qualifies as ketchup. It is surprisingly affiliated with Bio Foods, the makers of the best dairy products in the country especially milk and yoghurt, ironic.
How did I get roped into trying this monstrosity? Well, you can thank Java House for that one. They swapped out the universally adored Heinz for this brand, probably trying to save a few coins in these tough economic times ( which is understandable). But seriously, it’s so bad I can’t even put it into words—you’ve got to experience it to believe it.
The ketchup was so awful it inspired this entire post idea to rank ketchup brands.
Ma Cuisine is a Kenyan brand, and while I’m all for supporting local brands, this ketchup is beyond terrible. Someone else confirmed it for me, so I know I’m not losing my mind.
They do have a range of other sauces I haven’t tried yet, and I’m somewhat excited to check those out. But as for the ketchup? Hard pass, folks. This ain’t it.
4. Zesta
Zesta isn’t that mediocre, but it isn’t good either, yes I understand it appeals to budget consumers, but at least it doesn’t cost more than Ma Cuisine which runs KSh 329 for 380g while Zesta just costs 189 for 400g, it costs almost half while being a slightly better product, now this is a good example of expensive doesn’t necessarily mean superior
Still, even on a budget, I feel like Zesta isn’t the best option, Peptang is way better for the almost same price point
3. Peptang
Peptang hits the sweet spot if you’re looking for an affordable ketchup that offers decent quality. It’s that reliable middle-of-the-road option that gets the job done.
The quality is consistent, unlike some budget brands where you never know if you’re getting a smooth pour or a chunky surprise. Peptang strikes a good balance between taste, quality, and price. It’s the kind of ketchup that doesn’t try to be fancy or gourmet
2. Hellmann’s
Hellmann’s Tomato Ketchup is way better than Heinz. No debate—just my personal taste. This might be a hot take, but give it a try, and then you can have an opinion. It is hard to come by everywhere but it is usually available in Carrefour for the most part
Hellmann’s tastes less sugary and vinegary but still as good as Heinz’s. Maybe some people love the intensity of Heinz, which is why it’s the world’s most popular ketchup.
Nobody believes me when I say Hellmann’s is superior, but hey, their loss. It just has more tomatoness in it, if that makes sense. With Heinz, I feel like I’m eating tomato candy, just too sweet and tangy while also kind of expensive
Speaking of sweet and expensive you might love this post( as a sweet tooth): Review: 5 Best Premium (Expensive) Chocolate Brands in Kenya
1. Heinz
Heinz is great, but most cafes sneakily refill those iconic bottles with cheaper brands to cut costs since Heinz keeps getting pricier. A standard bottle now costs over 500 bob, which is way too much for small restaurants and cafes, especially considering it’s double what it cost five years ago.
Personally, I can’t justify spending that much on ketchup since I don’t use it often—I’m more of a mayo dudey, especially garlic mayo. That’s my go-to for most ketchup scenarios.
The fact that cafes keep the Heinz bottles but fill them with imposter ketchup says a lot about Heinz’s quality and reputation. Personally, I prefer Hellmann’s as a nice break from the Heinz monotony, but Heinz has that name recognition that most people swear by.
Heinz is the overall best and the most decent ketchup brand in Kenya. But it’s not for me, especially since it’s too sugary. They have a reduced sugar and salt version that’s pretty good, but good luck finding it in Kenya—unless my luck wishes work.
On the mayo front, nothing beats Heinz Mayo. It’s thick, dense, and has a pleasant texture. But again, it’s too expensive for my peasant budget. It’s actually nicer than Hellmann’s, though.
Related to Ketchup/ Sauces Links
The 5 Best Tomato Sauce Brands in Kenya
Home Made Bird’s Eye Chili Sauce
The 3 Best Soy Sauce Brands in Kenya
