We chose ten Christmas hams available in major supermarket chains nationally. We then set up a blind taste test where each product was tasted cold by a panel of three experts, and given a rating based on flavour, texture, appearance and smell.

Not all characteristics in the taste test were treated equally, with flavour being the most important and given a heavier weighting, followed by texture, appearance and smell. The CHOICE Expert Rating, is made up of the taste test score (90%) and the Health Star Rating (10%).

CORRECTION 5 December 2024: 1. A previous version of this article said the CHOICE Expert Rating (overall score) was based on 90% taste and 10% nutrition, when it should have said based on 90% taste and 10% Health Star Rating. We have updated this information but the overall score and ranking of results were correct and have not changed. 2. CHOICE had been supplied with the incorrect price for the Seven Mile Premium Double Smoked Leg Ham. It has been updated from $12/kg to $12.50/kg.