Aussie TikToker Uncovers Spanish Supermarket's Version of Iconic Tim Tams
An Australian musician and TikTok creator based in Madrid has sparked online discussion after discovering what he describes as a "counterfeit" version of the beloved Tim Tams biscuit at a local Spanish supermarket. The content creator, known online as @coreyyy.exe, shared his findings in a detailed review that has captivated audiences both in Australia and abroad.
The Discovery at Mercadona
In a recent TikTok clip, the Aussie expat revealed his surprise at learning that Spanish supermarket chain Mercadona had been producing a product strikingly similar to Australia's iconic chocolate biscuit. "Apparently the Mercadona supermarket chain has been making a blatant Tim Tam rip off, and I'm in Madrid so I'm going to check it out for myself," he told his followers.
The product in question, labeled as "Choco", was found on Mercadona shelves priced at €1.70 (approximately $2.80 AUD) for a 145g pack containing eight biscuits. According to the supermarket's website, Choco consists of "cookies with Hacendado cocoa cream filling covered in milk chocolate."
Price Comparison and Packaging Assessment
The TikToker conducted a thorough comparison between the Spanish alternative and genuine Tim Tams available at another local store. He discovered authentic Tim Tams—available in Extra Creamy, Chewy Caramel, and Original flavors—priced at €3.60 (about $5.92 AUD) for a 163g nine-pack.
For context, back in Australia, both Coles and Woolworths sell 200g packets containing 11 Tim Tams for $6. The content creator noted that the Choco packaging appeared somewhat dated, remarking it looked as if it "has been sitting on the shelf of a service station for three years."
Taste Test and Final Verdict
After unwrapping both products at home, the influencer conducted a side-by-side comparison. While acknowledging their visual similarity, he highlighted key differences in texture and quality. He praised Tim Tams for their creamier nougat and "unbeatable" texture, celebrating the perfect balance between creaminess and crunchiness that defines the Australian original.
His assessment of the Spanish version was surprisingly generous, describing Choco as "edible" and even offering approval. "You know what, I approve of the fake... they're doing a better job than anyone else (at stealing) so we'll let 'em have it," he concluded in his video review.
Social Media Reactions and Historical Context
The video prompted lively discussions in the comments section, with many Australians expressing surprise that Tim Tams were actually available in European supermarkets. One commenter wrote: "Can't believe I just got my mom to fly these over when they were right here."
Others raised questions about the origins of Tim Tams themselves, noting similarities to the UK's Penguin biscuits and suggesting Madrid's longer history might predate Australia's iconic snack. To this, @coreyyy.exe responded humorously: "Penguin walked so Tim Tams could go to Mars."
Historically, Tim Tams were launched by Arnott's in 1963 and are believed to have been inspired by the British Penguin biscuit, though with significant improvements including more chocolate, lighter biscuits, and chocolate-flavored cream filling. The name originated from Ross Arnott's admiration for a winning racehorse named "Tim Tam" at the 1958 Kentucky Derby.
The Expat's Personal Revelation
Perhaps the most amusing aspect of the story emerged when the TikToker admitted his own oversight. "This whole time I had no idea you could actually buy Tim Tams in Spain at all. I'm that d***head that overpays in the duty free for Tim Tams. $16 for a few biscuits," he confessed, highlighting the premium many expats pay for taste of home.
The video serves as both an entertaining review and a practical guide for Australians living abroad, revealing that their favorite biscuit might be more accessible—and affordable—than they realized, even if local alternatives attempt to capture the same magic.
