Lidl’s Bellarom coffee attracts many consumers with its attractive price. But does it deliver on quality? Between tests by UFC-Que Choisir, which rank it among the best, and more nuanced user reviews, we take stock of this affordable range.
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What UFC-Que Choisir Says About Lidl Coffee
The consumer organization tested 28 references of coffee beans in supermarkets. The Bellarom Classico Espresso scored 15.3/20, positioning itself in the top of the ranking.
This score places Lidl coffee ahead of several recognized brands. Experts particularly appreciated its medium roast that preserves the natural aromas of arabica beans. Fruity notes and taste persistence were highlighted.
The safety analysis reveals very low levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, well below regulatory thresholds. The composition matches the claims: 100% arabica verified in the laboratory.
Value for Money: Really Interesting?
Bellarom Classico Espresso is sold around €8 to €10 per kilo depending on the period, approximately €29.64/kg. This price places it in the accessible segment of mass distribution.
For comparison, premium coffees range between €50 and €110/kg. Entry-level national brands are between €20 and €40/kg. Lidl’s positioning therefore remains competitive without being the cheapest on the market.
For an average consumer who drinks 5kg of coffee per year, the savings represent approximately €100 to €150 annually compared to mid-range brands.
The Different Bellarom Ranges Available
Lidl offers several references under the Bellarom brand, but availability varies by store.
Bellarom Classico Espresso: the bestseller tested by UFC-Que Choisir. Arabica blend with medium roast, versatile for espresso and filter coffee.
Bellarom Espresso Cremoso: blend with more body, generally sold in 1.2kg bags at advantageous prices.
Bellarom Tradition: another regularly offered blend, slightly different profile.
Single origins: Lidl sometimes offers single-origin coffees (Colombia, Brazil) in 500g formats, ideal for discovering different terroirs without a large investment.
The rotation of references can frustrate regulars. Some appreciated coffees disappear from the catalog, like the old Bellarom Gold 100% arabica which is no longer marketed.
No Lidl near you?
Before you head out to try Bellarom, Lavazza Espresso Barista Perfetto has a remarkably similar profile: 100% Arabica, medium roast, chocolate notes. It’s the perfect way to discover this style of coffee from the comfort of your sofa and make sure you like it before going to the store.
Consumer Reviews: Feedback
User feedback on specialized forums reveals contrasting experiences.
Positive Points Noted
The chocolatey taste and low acidity are regularly appreciated. For everyday coffee at a tight price, many consumers find it correct and satisfying.
Rainforest Alliance certification provides an ethical dimension absent from some competitors at the same price. Responsible agricultural practices appeal to consumers sensitive to these issues.
Versatility is an asset. The coffee adapts to automatic machines, Italian coffee makers, and French press coffee makers.
Limitations Reported
Crema is problematic on some machines. Users report that with a portafilter machine, obtaining beautiful crema requires much more ground coffee and a finer grind than usual. This peculiarity increases the actual cost per cup.
The low fat content of the beans would explain this difficulty. For some purists equipped with high-end equipment, the necessary adjustments cancel out the price advantage.
The freshness of the beans is questionable. Single-origin coffees may have been roasted several months before being put on shelves, which affects aromas despite protective atmosphere packaging.
Some consumers simply find it acceptable, preferring to invest a few extra euros in brands like Sati or Segafredo.
Comparison with Other Discount Coffees
Compared to competing private label brands, Bellarom holds up well.
Carrefour Bio Mexico 100% arabica and Auchan Bio arabica are positioned in a similar range. Their UFC-Que Choisir scores remain close without significantly exceeding Lidl.
Entry-level national brands like Carte Noire or Jacques Vabre offer variable qualities. Basic versions sometimes prove less appreciated than Bellarom in blind tastings.
For those looking for the absolute cheapest, ultra-discount brands can drop below €20/kg. Quality then drops significantly.
For What Uses Is Lidl Coffee Suitable?
Daily Family Use
For daily consumption without particular pretension, Bellarom fulfills its role. Families who drink several coffees a day will find a good quality-price compromise.
Entry and mid-range automatic machines give good results. Italian and filter coffee makers produce pleasant cups.
Office and Communities
The quality-price ratio makes it a relevant choice for equipping an office. Few colleagues will complain about a free coffee of this quality.
The 1kg or larger format allows you to supply a collective machine without breaking the bank.
Not Recommended for Purists
Enthusiasts equipped with professional portafilter machines risk disappointment. The difficulty in obtaining satisfactory crema and the necessary adjustments are frustrating.
If you’re looking for complex aromatic profiles and subtle notes, turn to specialized roasters or high-end coffee beans.
My Favorite Krups Machine for Perfect Coffee
After testing numerous Krups models, this machine offers the best compromise between espresso quality, ease of maintenance, and long-term reliability.
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Purchasing and Usage Tips
Where and When to Buy
Bellarom is found in all Lidl stores in the coffee aisle. Availability of different references varies. Some formats appear as temporary promotions.
Prices fluctuate depending on the period. Watch for promotions to get the best price, generally around €7-8 per kilo on promotion.
Storage and Preparation
To preserve aromas, quickly transfer coffee into an opaque airtight container after opening. Storage in the cupboard, away from light and heat, remains ideal. Discover our detailed advice on how to store ground coffee.
Grinding beans just before preparation optimizes aromas, even with this accessible coffee.
Machine Settings
On an automatic machine, start with a medium grind. Adjust according to the result: if the coffee flows too quickly, refine the grind. If it flows too slowly, increase the size of the ground beans.
For Italian coffee makers, prefer a medium to fine grind but not too powdery.
Our Final Verdict
Lidl coffee beans deserve their reputation for good value for money for daily use without particular requirements. The UFC-Que Choisir score confirms correct quality for the price segment.
The main assets remain the accessible price, ethical certification, and versatility of use. For a tight budget or large family consumption, it’s a rational choice.
The limitations mainly concern users of high-end equipment who struggle to obtain satisfactory crema without adjustments. Variable freshness depending on batches can also disappoint.
If you’re looking for everyday coffee without breaking the bank, try Bellarom Classico. If you’re passionate and equipped with professional equipment, invest in a superior range. In between, the choice depends on your priorities between absolute quality and controlled budget.
