Tesco expands crackdown on ultra-processed food additives

Tesco is expanding its restrictions on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) by increasing the number of banned or restricted additives in its own-brand products from 65 to 114. The retailer has implemented outright bans on ingredients such as artificial colours, aspartame, and monosodium glutamate. Other additives, including mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, are now subject to restrictions as the company works with suppliers to reformulate products.

The move follows company research indicating that 81 per cent of customers are attempting to reduce their consumption of ultra-processed foods. To assist shoppers, Tesco has introduced a new filter on its online grocery platform to allow for searches for products without specific additives.

As part of a broader health initiative, Tesco reported that 65 per cent of its food sales in the UK and Republic of Ireland are now classified as healthy. The company continues to focus on reducing fat, salt, and sugar while increasing protein, fibre, and vegetable content in its own-brand ranges.