Tesco has banned or restricted 114 food additives from its own-brand products, the supermarket announced, as it responds to growing shopper concerns about ultra-processed foods (UPFs).
The UK's largest supermarket said the affected ingredients include artificial colours, aspartame and monosodium glutamate (MSG). The move follows research showing that more than 80% of its customers are trying to cut down on ultra-processed foods, but many struggle to identify which products to choose.
Customer demand for transparency
Alice Ritchie, Tesco's head of healthy and sustainable diets, said: "Health needs are reshaping the way people shop. A big one is concern around ultra-processed foods, which has moved very much beyond trend territory."
"Customers are talking about UPFs more than ever before, reading ingredients lists and asking for more transparency. As part of our work in this space we have either outright banned or restricted 114 food additives in our own brand products," she added.
Reformulation and healthier options
Tesco said it is continuing to reformulate products to make them healthier, including reducing fat, salt and sugar levels while adding more vegetables, protein and fibre where possible. The supermarket says additives are only used where needed for reasons such as food safety, shelf life or quality, and in the minimum amounts required.
Shoppers are also being encouraged towards healthier options such as fresh fruit and vegetables. Tesco has introduced filters on its online grocery service to make it easier to find products that meet different dietary needs.
Industry response to UPF concerns
Tesco is not the first major supermarket to respond to the trend. Marks & Spencer launched its Only... range last year, featuring products made with eight ingredients or fewer.
Tesco said it would continue working on its products and helping customers make healthier choices.
