What is the best brand of hummus?

December 13, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2025 report by Verified Market Reports, hummus continues to grow as a global food staple due to increasing demand for healthy, plant-based options. This makes the question 'What is the best brand of hummus?' more relevant than ever for consumers seeking quality, flavor, and health benefits in their store-bought dip.

Quick Summary

This review analyzes popular hummus brands based on taste, texture, and ingredients to help you choose the best store-bought option. Key factors like flavor balance, smoothness, and price are examined across top contenders like Ithaca, Cedar's, and Sabra.

Key Points

Ithaca is a top contender: Praised for its fresh, homemade-like taste, smooth texture, and strong lemon and garlic flavors.
Cedar's offers a balanced option: A reliable choice with a classic flavor profile that is widely available and more budget-friendly than Ithaca.
Sabra is most accessible: This widespread brand offers a variety of flavors and a budget-friendly price, although reviews on taste and texture can be mixed.
Boar's Head features healthier options: Known for its lower-sodium content and organic variations, focusing on quality ingredients.
CAVA delivers a strong citrus flavor: An excellent choice for those who love a tangy, lemon-forward hummus profile.
Consider texture and ingredients: Pay attention to how smooth or thick you like your hummus and if organic or preservative-free ingredients are important.
Personal preference is key: The 'best' hummus depends on your specific tastes regarding flavor balance, ingredients, and price point.

Comparing the Top Contenders

Finding the absolute best brand of hummus is a matter of personal preference, as different palates favor varying degrees of garlic, lemon, and tahini. However, several brands consistently receive high marks from food critics and everyday consumers alike for their superior flavor and texture. This comprehensive comparison will break down the attributes of the market leaders to help you decide which one is right for you. We’ll look at aspects such as ingredients, texture, flavor profile, and price to give you a complete picture of the landscape.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hummus

When shopping for hummus, it's easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. To make an informed decision, consider the following:

Flavor Profile: Do you prefer a classic, tangy, or garlicky taste? Some brands are praised for their strong lemon notes, while others have a more pronounced tahini flavor.
Texture: The texture of hummus can range from perfectly smooth and velvety to slightly chunky or gritty. Premium brands often use high-pressure processing (HPP) to achieve a smoother consistency without preservatives.
Ingredients: Health-conscious consumers should look for organic, non-GMO, or preservative-free options. Not all hummus is created equal, and the quality of ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil can make a significant difference.
Price: Price points vary widely, with some brands offering a budget-friendly option while others are considered a premium splurge. Your budget will likely be a factor in your decision.
Availability: Some brands are widely available at major grocery chains, while others might be regional or found only at specialty stores.

Leading Brands and Their Standout Features

Ithaca Hummus

Often cited by food professionals as a top-tier choice, Ithaca is known for its fresh, vibrant flavor. Their lemon garlic variety is a fan favorite, praised for a tanginess that mimics homemade hummus. Ithaca uses high-pressure processing to extend shelf life without relying on chemical preservatives. The texture is consistently smooth and creamy, though its premium quality comes at a higher price point.

Cedar's Hommus

For those who prefer a more traditional, balanced flavor, Cedar's is a reliable runner-up. The brand offers both classic and organic options, featuring a good balance of tahini and garlic. Cedar's provides a solid, classic hummus that is widely available and more budget-friendly than some premium competitors.

Sabra Classic Hummus

As one of the most recognizable brands on the market, Sabra has a strong distribution network and offers a wide range of flavors. While some reviews note a more processed or bitter taste compared to artisanal brands, it remains a popular and widely accessible choice for many consumers due to its familiarity and lower price.

Boar's Head Hummus

Boar's Head offers quality traditional and organic options, focusing on simple ingredients. Their hummus often features steamed chickpeas and a classic olive oil base. It's a great choice for those seeking a straightforward, reliable product with less sodium than some competitors.

CAVA Traditional Hummus

CAVA is a popular option known for its strong citrus flavor. For hummus lovers who prioritize a tangy, lemon-forward profile, CAVA provides an excellent alternative to Ithaca at a slightly more accessible price point. Its consistency is smooth, and it delivers a refreshing bite.

Hummus Brand Comparison Table


Feature	Ithaca Fresh Lemon Garlic	Cedar's Organic Original	Sabra Classic	Boar's Head Traditional	CAVA Traditional
Best For	Closest to homemade taste; strong citrus notes.	Balanced, classic flavor profile.	Wide accessibility; budget-friendly.	Lower sodium; organic options.	Strong citrus flavor profile.
Texture	Very smooth, creamy, and velvety.	Balanced creaminess, slightly denser.	Often denser or more processed consistency.	Smooth, with a classic, balanced texture.	Smooth with a slight tang.
Price	Premium	Mid-range	Budget-friendly	Mid-range	Mid-range
Preservatives	No chemical preservatives (uses HPP).	Some varieties may contain preservatives.	Contains preservatives (e.g., potassium sorbate).	No preservatives.	Preservative-free.
Key Flavor	Vibrant lemon and garlic.	Classic balance of tahini and garlic.	Familiar, but can sometimes taste overly processed.	Well-balanced with a lower salt content.	Tangy lemon kick.
Availability	Growing nationwide (premium stores).	Widespread at most major supermarkets.	Extremely widespread.	Widely available.	Broad distribution.

How to Choose Your Ideal Hummus

To find the best hummus for your needs, start by identifying your priorities. If a fresh, vibrant, and homemade taste is your top concern and price is secondary, Ithaca is likely your best bet. Its use of HPP and focus on fresh ingredients makes it stand out. If you prefer a classic, reliable flavor and are mindful of your budget, both Cedar's and Boar's Head offer excellent, well-balanced options. For those who love a bold, tangy citrus taste, CAVA delivers a strong and refreshing profile. Finally, if you value widespread availability and a lower price above all else, the ever-present Sabra is a convenient choice. For a more in-depth breakdown of ingredients and flavor profiles, you can consult articles from food critics and consumer reports. Ultimately, the best brand is the one that best matches your personal taste, texture preference, and budget.

Conclusion

While the market for store-bought hummus is competitive, offering a diverse range of products, Ithaca often takes the top spot for its exceptional homemade-quality flavor and texture. However, excellent alternatives exist for every preference and budget. Whether you favor a tangy, classic, or healthier option, brands like Cedar's, Boar's Head, CAVA, and Sabra each bring something unique to the table. By considering factors like flavor, texture, ingredients, and cost, you can confidently choose the best brand of hummus to suit your snacking needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brands like Ithaca Hummus and Lilly's Classic Hummus are frequently cited for their exceptionally smooth and velvety texture, which is often compared to homemade hummus.

For organic hummus, Boar's Head Simplicity Organic Traditional Hummus and Cedar's Organic Original Hommus are both highly rated options that use quality, organic ingredients.

Sabra, like many other commercial brands, uses some preservatives like potassium sorbate to extend shelf life. While not inherently unhealthy, more health-conscious consumers might prefer brands that use high-pressure processing (HPP) instead.

Brands like Whole Foods Original Hummus and Sabra are typically among the more budget-friendly and widely available options at most grocery stores.

Hope Foods Original Hummus is a great choice if you prefer a prominent, garlicky flavor profile in your hummus. It has a notable garlic bite without being overwhelming.

Yes, the quality of olive oil impacts the flavor. Brands like Ithaca and Boar's Head use extra-virgin olive oil, while some others may use a blend of oils, which can result in a different taste and aftertaste.

Most store-bought hummus brands, whether they use preservatives or HPP, state that their product will last for approximately a week in the refrigerator after opening. Always check the specific product label for the most accurate information.