Bays vs Great Value English Muffins — Is the Price Worth It?
Trying a New English Muffin Brand
When it comes to Bays vs Great Value English Muffins, I recently decided it was time for a real side-by-side comparison. I’ve bragged on Bays English Muffins for years because they are such a great tasting product. But while shopping in the dairy counter the other day, I noticed a package of Great Value English Muffins and realized I had never given them a fair try.
Up until then, Bays were the only refrigerated English muffins I had seen in that section, so curiosity — and the price difference — finally convinced me to bring home both brands.
Comparing Nutrition and Ingredients
Just looking at the package, the Great Value muffins actually sounded better from a numbers standpoint. They had fewer calories, fewer carbs, and less sugar, with just slightly less protein. Those are the main things I personally look at when choosing everyday grocery items.
Based on the nutrition information alone, the Great Value muffins came out ahead for me.
Taste and Texture Test
When toasted, Bays English Muffins are just about perfect. We enjoy them as breakfast sandwiches or simply toasted with peanut butter, cream cheese, or jam. They are very tender and not overly chewy.
The Great Value muffins looked more dense when split open and placed in the toaster. Surprisingly, there was very little difference in flavor once toasted. However, the texture is where the biggest difference showed up. The Great Value muffins are just not quite as tender and have a slightly denser chew compared to Bays.
Packaging Differences
One small but noticeable drawback with the Great Value muffins was the packaging. Bays uses a resealable top that peels back easily so you can grab one muffin and seal it again.
The Great Value muffins come in a traditional plastic bag with a twist tie. It works, but it isn’t quite as convenient. Packaging may seem like a small thing, but it does make a difference in everyday use.
Walmart… are you listening? 😊
Final Thoughts — Which Would I Buy Again?
If the price between the two brands were closer, I would probably still choose Bays English Muffins because of their softer texture and slightly better overall eating experience.
However, considering the significant price difference and the fact that the taste is very similar, we will likely be buying the Great Value English Muffins going forward. They offer a very good value for everyday breakfasts with only a small compromise in tenderness.
I’ve written before about how much we enjoy Bays English Muffins — they’ve been a breakfast staple around here. If you’d like to read my original thoughts on them, you can check out that post here.⬇️
