Out of Old Bay, one case
Old Bay substitute UK
3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Schwartz seafood seasoning
Same amount as the Old Bay
In the UK, use Schwartz Seafood Seasoning as the closest commercial alternative, or make your own blend using celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other spices available at Tesco, Sainsbury's, or specialty stores.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- seafood
One casethe full Old Bay seasoning card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Old Bay | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Schwartz seafood seasoningseafood | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Homemade UK blendauthentic flavor | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Cajun seasoningwhen you want heat | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Schwartz seafood seasoning
similar taste and texture
British commercial seasoning blend similar to Old Bay
- Best for
- seafood, crab boils, shrimp, fish
Available at most UK supermarkets. Similar flavor profile to Old Bay.
Homemade UK blend
similar taste and texture
Make your own using locally available ingredients
- Best for
- authentic flavor, customization, cost savings
Use celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, allspice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Cajun seasoning
different taste, similar texture
Spicier alternative available in most UK supermarkets
- Best for
- when you want heat, general seasoning
Slightly spicier than Old Bay but similar complexity.
How it behaves in this recipe
This guide focuses on finding Old Bay substitutes specifically available in the UK, including local commercial alternatives and where to source ingredients for homemade blends.
Tips for substituting Old Bay
6 tips- Check Tesco and Sainsbury's international sections for Old Bay
- Look for American food stores for authentic products
- Order online through Amazon UK or eBay for convenience
- Make your own blend using UK ingredients
- Store spices properly in UK climate
- Use UK seafood like brown crab and prawns
Notes on Old Bay
- Try different commercial seafood seasonings
- Experiment with local spice blends
- Order ingredients online for better selection
- Visit specialty stores for authentic products
Questions
4 questionsWhere can I buy Old Bay seasoning in the UK?
Old Bay is available at some Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Asda stores in the international section, American food stores, and online through Amazon UK, eBay, and specialty food websites. Availability varies by location.
What's the best UK substitute for Old Bay?
Schwartz Seafood Seasoning is the closest commercial alternative available in most UK supermarkets. For a more authentic taste, make your own blend using celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, and other spices.
How much does Old Bay cost in the UK?
Old Bay typically costs £4-6 for a small container (2.5oz) and £10-15 for larger containers (8oz). Shipping costs add £3-8 for online orders. Homemade blends cost £4-8 for all ingredients.
Can I make Old Bay substitute with UK ingredients?
Yes, all the necessary ingredients are available in UK supermarkets. You can find celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, allspice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon at Tesco, Sainsbury's, and other major stores.