Instant Noodles

Value4Money: McDonnell's Super Noodles

€0.89 for 100 grams

Highs: More noodles are crammed into this than any of the others so if you're seeking the largest amount of stodge to stave off hunger pangs, these might be for you. While they are as artificial as bejaysus and - like the rest - contain virtually nothing in the way of nutrition, some might find them strangely addictive.

Lows: These poor noodles look terribly anaemic when compared to their rivals and when cooked they quickly become the most gloopy. The flavour is pretty bland (in fairness it does describe itself as mild curry) and then there's the price - at 89 cent they are the most expensive.

Verdict: Not so super.

Star rating: **

Koka Instant Noodles

€0.63 for 85 grams

Highs: These soupy noodles are the best, most authentic ones tried. The flavours are great and the noodles retain their shape and texture throughout both cooking - and, crucially, eating. Eaten alone, they're pretty hearty fare but they really come into their substantial own when added to meat or vegetables. And at just 63 cent they're the second cheapest tried.

Lows: One of the reasons they taste so good must be due to the MSG in the mix. Of course this does add to the authenticity somewhat. The cooking instructions are also irritating - cook the noodles for two to three minutes. Which?

Verdict: Rather excellent.

Star rating: *****

Heinz Spicy Thai Noodles

€0.72 for 85 grams

Highs: These certainly come out on top on the aroma front. The wafting smell of coconut milk as the powdered flavouring is added to the noodles creates an excellent first impression. The packaging is also pretty flash as indeed are the cooked noodles on first sight.

Lows: Beyond that, sadly, it is all downhill. The taste is pretty poor. The artificial flavour which succeeds so well in aping the smell of coconut milk just doesn't work when it comes to the taste.

Perhaps a different flavour in this same brand would work a whole lot better. Given the price, you'd expect a lot more.

Verdict: Not good at all.

Star rating: **

Tesco Value Instant Noodles

€0.13 for 65 grams

Highs: Soviet-style packaging aside, these are really rather remarkable. The noodles, while thin, retain their shape and texture well and the taste, while hardly rich and flavoursome, is a long way from horrible. The noodles are also a long way from home. Imported from China, it is hard to imagine how Tesco can sell them at this price and still make a profit.

Lows: At just 65 grams, they offer the smallest portion size so if you happen to be an impoverished student relying on one packet, you might be disappointed. Of course, at this price you can probably afford to stretch to a second packet.

Verdict: Exceptionally good value.

Star rating: ****