The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us? 8 best supermarket sourdough loaves, taste-tested by a food editor Supermarkets have increasingly joined the sourdough trend, offering their own versions of this naturally leavened bread. Sourdough is made using wild yeast and bacteria, rather than commercial yeast, and is known for its tangy flavor and airy texture. A good sourdough should be soft, springy, and have an even crumb with air pockets spread throughout. However, the term "sourdough" is not legally protected, which means some store-bought loaves may be made with added yeast or flavorings to mimic the real thing. To ensure a loaf is authentic, it should be made with a live sourdough starter and fermented naturally without added yeast. Swie Joo, head baker at The Palmerston, explains that while many supermarket sourdoughs are available, not all are true sourdough. To identify a genuine sourdough, check the ingredient list for the presence of yeast. If it's listed, it's not a true sourdough. After testing dozens of loaves, the following supermarket sourdoughs stood out for their quality and flavor. The best overall supermarket sourdough is the Wildfarmed white sourdough bread, priced at £4 and available at Waitrose. This loaf is made using regeneratively grown wheat and slow-fermented over two days. It has a slight tang and chewy texture, making it ideal for weekend sandwiches. The brand, co-founded by Andy Cato and George Lamb, promotes regenerative farming practices, improving soil health and biodiversity. For the best sourdough for toast, Sainsbury's Taste the Difference white sourdough half bloomer, priced at £2, is a good choice. Though it lacks a crusty exterior, it has a springy crumb and is affordable. It works well when toasted, making it a practical everyday option. Gail’s San Francisco sourdough, priced at £6.50, is a high-quality artisan loaf sold at Waitrose. It uses a mix of grains like spelt, emmer, and rye, giving it a rich flavor and open crumb. While it's more expensive, it's a great option for those who appreciate a more traditional sourdough experience. Bertinet Bakery's rustic country white sourdough, available at £5, is a pre-packaged option that still maintains the artisan feel. Made with heritage grains and sustainably sourced ingredients, it has a nice tang and works well for toast. The loaf looks and tastes more like a wholemeal than a traditional white sourdough, which is a unique feature. Waitrose's No. 1 white sourdough bread, priced at £2.25, stands out for its strong tangy flavor. It is pre-sliced and has a good spring, making it ideal for toast. The range also includes other varieties like wheat and rye sourdough, offering a variety of options. Asda's Exceptional white sourdough loaf, priced at £5, is a pre-packaged option that exceeded expectations. It has a fairly even crumb and a good structure, suggesting it was well fermented. The tangy flavor is a result of aged wild yeast used in the starter. For those who need a gluten-free option, the Good Grain Bakery gluten-free seeded sourdough, priced at £6.20, is a good choice. It's made with organic gluten-free flours and topped with seeds, offering a decent texture despite being gluten-free. It's a practical option for those who can't consume gluten. Co-op's Irresistible slow crafted white sourdough bloomer, priced at £2.50, has a low rise but a better crust than some other options. It uses a slow fermentation method and a 15-year-old starter, though the lack of rise suggests it may not have had a successful ferment. The crumb has evenly distributed air pockets, making it a decent option for toast. In conclusion, while artisan bakers still produce the best sourdough, supermarkets offer a range of high-quality options. The Wildfarmed and Gail’s sourdoughs stand out for their commitment to regenerative agriculture and quality ingredients. For those on a budget, Sainsbury's and Asda offer affordable options that still deliver a good taste and texture.