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UK supermarket Tesco has restricted the use of 114 additives across its own-label range as the company steps up efforts to respond to growing consumer concern around ultra-processed foods (UPFs).
The move represents a significant expansion of the retailer’s existing additive policy, with the number of restricted additives rising from 65 last year.
Tesco said the issue of UPFs had become “much more than just a trend” and that it wanted to work with consumers and suppliers to address growing health concerns while continuing to prioritise food safety, quality and affordability.
Alice Ritchie, head of healthy and sustainable diets at Tesco, said: "We’re working hard to reformulate our products to make them healthier and more nutritious and we provide clear guidance to our Own Brand suppliers on the use of additives. As part of this, we have restricted the use of 114 additives in our Own Brand products.”
Tesco said the 114 additives covered by its policy include ingredients that are either banned outright from its own-label products or subject to additional restrictions, innovation requirements and supplier engagement.
Examples of additives Tesco said are banned outright include artificial colours, aspartame and monosodium glutamate (MSG).
The retailer stressed, however, that its approach is not focused solely on removing additives. Its own-label suppliers are required to use additives only where they are considered necessary for food safety, shelf life or quality, and then at the minimum amount required.
The expansion of the policy forms part of a broader reformulation programme that Tesco said has been under way since 2018.
The retailer also said it was increasing transparency around UPFs in response to customer demand for simpler, more recognisable ingredients on packaging.
Tesco said it would continue to monitor scientific evidence, industry best practice and policy developments as the debate around UPFs evolves.
The supermarket has also introduced a dietary and lifestyle filter on its online platform, allowing customers to identify products without additives.
The move comes as food manufacturers and retailers face increasing scrutiny over the role of processing, additives and formulation in consumers’ diets.
Tesco said its strategy remained aligned with the Eatwell Guide and its support for healthier diets lower in foods high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS).
At the same time, it said it remained committed to making whole-food choices, including fruit and vegetables, whole grains, beans and pulses, affordable and accessible to consumers.
The retailer added that its work would continue to focus on making healthier choices “simple and accessible”, rather than relying solely on the removal of individual ingredients.
