Tesco, the UK's largest supermarket chain, is set to launch a new trial that will see expiring food given away to customers for free after 9:30pm.
While Tesco already donates unsold food nearing its expiry to charities and food banks, the move marks the first time a major UK retailer will offer such items directly to customers in-store. The initiative aims to make use of edible food that would otherwise go to waste and is part of a broader effort to halve food waste by the end of 2030.
The trial will begin in a select number of Tesco Express stores, although the locations and launch date are not yet announced.
This development comes as food insecurity continues to rise across the UK. Over seven million people are estimated to be affected - with many skipping meals or going entire days without eating due to financial hardship. Food bank network, The Trussell Trust, has reported an additional 1.4 million people using their services in the past two years.
By giving customers access to food that would otherwise be thrown away, Tesco hopes to not only tackle waste but also help alleviate the pressure facing some communities.
Photo: Shad Chefs
