Holiday Inn 'Too Good To Go' Breakfast Bag Criticised for 'Undercooked' Bacon
A man who purchased a Too Good To Go breakfast bag from a Holiday Inn has praised the affordable meal, but online observers quickly pointed out a glaring issue with the bacon's appearance. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of these surplus food bags, designed to combat waste by offering mystery items at discounted prices.
The Breakfast Bag Haul
The customer, who frequently buys the breakfast bag with his partner after the hotel stops serving, described it as a "good way to do a decent breakfast for two fairly cheaply." He shared a photo on Reddit showing a substantial haul from what he believed was an Easter holidays bumper crop. The contents included two boxes filled with baked beans, two fried eggs, numerous small hash brown bites, mushrooms, several rashers of bacon, and at least six sausages.
While most items appeared edible, though likely kept warm under a hot plate, the bacon drew immediate criticism. Commenters noted its slightly grey colour and white film, joking that it looked so undercooked it "could still be alive" or might cause stomach issues. One user remarked, "Bacon looks like it still could have a pulse," while another warned, "Don't eat that bacon if you wanna see tomorrow."
Defending the Surplus Food Concept
Despite the backlash, some defended the breakfast, arguing it was typical for buffet-style items not cooked to order. They emphasised that while the food might not be fresh, it should still be safe to eat. A supporter commented, "Forget all these haters - do your thing, I say. Enjoy your food. As long as you don't get sick, who cares?" Another noted, "I'd eat it. Bacon has just been in brine water, I imagine."
Too Good To Go explains on its website that bags are a surprise because surplus food is hard to predict. Customers may not receive their desired items, and some, like bacon, might not meet preferred crispiness levels. The company states, "We've found that the best way to combat wasting surplus food is by giving stores the flexibility to distribute whatever they have left at the end of the day, which can vary." They also suggest passing unwanted food to others to prevent waste.
The Broader Context of Too Good To Go
Too Good To Go bags have gained popularity at establishments like Greggs and Pizza Express, offering discounted mystery items that would otherwise be discarded. However, as this case shows, they involve an element of risk. The man's experience underscores that while these bags provide a cost-effective way to reduce food waste, customers should temper expectations regarding freshness and presentation.
This incident has sparked broader discussions about food safety and consumer expectations in the sharing economy. As more people turn to apps like Too Good To Go for bargains, balancing waste reduction with quality concerns remains a key challenge for both businesses and consumers.
