Fruit becomes main course in Tesco deal at the price of bread spirals

Including fruit as a main course and as an appetizer means shoppers can double the amount of fruit. Photo: Jamie Lorriman

Most people instinctively grab a sandwich or a pot of pasta when choosing food in the supermarket for lunch.

But Tesco has decided that a pot of fruit is now also considered a main course.

< p >The UK's largest supermarket has begun to include pineapple, kiwi and grapes as main options for its lunch offering, allowing shoppers to receive discounts on their main course, appetizer and drink.

Main courses have traditionally included only sandwiches and rolls. and pasta, but this category has now been expanded to include fruit pots ranging from 230g to 300g.

Smaller portions are still offered as a side dish, meaning customers can enjoy a two-pot lunch pineapple and drink. .

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This is happening against the backdrop of a sharp rise in bread prices. According to the Office for National Statistics, the cost of a loaf rose by a record 19.4% in the 12 months to March.

Although fruit prices also rose, the increase was smaller. . According to comparison service Trolley.co.uk, the price of Tesco fruit pots has risen by just 3.6 percent over the past year.

Eating disorder campaigners, however, warn that Tesco's decision to offer fruit as a main course could be damaging.

Tom Quinn, director of external relations for Beat Eating Disorders, said: «We are concerned that advertising fruit as a main course can encourage people who are unhealthy to limit their food intake, which can exacerbate harmful behaviors and thoughts.»

«It can also contribute to the development of an eating disorder if someone is already vulnerable.

“1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder and supermarkets are required to work with eating disorder specialists to protect those who suffer from these serious mental illnesses. This should include the urgent elimination of any practices that may cause harm.”

Supermarkets have recently come under scrutiny after a study showed they were high in calories.

Researchers from the University of Birmingham found that many food offerings contained well over the 600 calories recommended for lunch. One in five food combinations in major supermarkets exceeded the limit. The highest calorie combination was found to have 1329 calories, more than McDonald's Big Mac and Fries.

Triple sandwiches like Tesco's Chicken Triple or its Sausage, Bacon & The egg was the most nutritious food, while chips and chocolate bars were considered the worst snacks.

The researchers urged the government to force retailers to offer healthier food pairings.

high-calorie meals

A Tesco spokesperson said: 10 million delicious combinations, so there's something for you at any time of the day.»

“Our large portion of pineapple is great for a main breakfast, and small portions of pineapple are also used as a side dish.”

Tesco gave its food deal a serious shakeup in February with the introduction of a number of new products. has been designed to offer more choice.

As part of the changes, club card prices have been reduced to £3.40. Those who do not sign up for the loyalty program must pay £3.90.

The supermarket has also introduced a new level of 'premium' food offerings which include more upmarket staples such as the best produce sandwich Tesco. range or offers from brands such as Yo! Sushi & Pollen &amp; Grace.

Tesco isn't the only supermarket to offer fruit as a main course. Boots' The food special offers a range of fruit pots from the Del Monte brand as main courses, as well as smaller pots for side dishes.

Would you choose a fruit pot as your main course? Join the discussion in the comments section below