Tesco steps up its fight against ultra-processed foods

The British supermarket chain Tesco is banning more than 100 additives from its private-label brands in response to customer demand for healthier eating and a reduction in ultra-processed foods.

Stricter rules

Tesco is committed to greater transparency regarding ultra-processed foods, as customers want to see simpler, more recognizable ingredients listed on packaging. The company reports that it has removed or limited the use of 114 ingredients in its private-label products—49 more than last year. These include artificial colors, the sweetener aspartame, and the flavor enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG).

Market research has shown that 80% of Tesco customers want to eat healthier and consume fewer highly processed products. As a result, the retailer is tightening the rules for its private-label manufacturers: they may now only use approved additives if they are strictly necessary for food safety, quality, or shelf life—and then only in the smallest possible quantities, reports The Grocer.

No compromises on taste or quality

Tesco says it has worked hard over the past eight years to reformulate its products without compromising on taste or quality. In doing so, the supermarket chain is not only phasing out additives but also increasing the levels of “beneficial” nutrients in its products, for example by adding vegetables, fruits, and dietary fiber.

The retailer states that 65% of its food sales in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland are now classified as healthy, while sales of fruits and vegetables have risen by 10% since 2022. Other British food retailers are also taking similar initiatives. For example, Marks & Spencer launched the “Only” sub-brand last year, a line of products with a minimal number of ingredients.