Tesco Admits Plant-Based Meat Target Is ‘Highly Unlikely’ Amid Changing UK Diets

Tesco, the largest retailer in the UK, has admitted that it is unlikely to meet its goal of increasing plant-based meat sales by 300% by the end of 2025. This is due to a shift in consumer preferences towards vegetable-led dishes and whole plant-based foods like vegetables, beans, and tofu. Despite initial success in increasing plant-based meat sales, the growth has slowed down in recent years, with consumers showing a greater interest in protein diversity and incorporating more vegetables into their diets.

In response to the changing dietary landscape, Tesco has focused on stocking whole-food proteins like pulses, nuts, seeds, and vegetable-based ingredients. The retailer has introduced new plant-based products that emphasize vegetables as the main ingredient, targeting consumers who want to consume more plant-based foods. As part of its healthy eating push, Tesco is also addressing concerns around ultra-processed foods and promoting gut health among consumers. Overall, Tesco acknowledges the challenges ahead in meeting its sustainability and health goals, calling for greater commitment, innovation, and collaboration across different sectors to drive progress.