The protein content of each yogurt pot ranges from 16g to 23g per 350g. All are free from both dairy and soy, and are suitable for vegans. The yogurts come in six flavors: strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, vanilla fudge (a brand-new addition), and natural.

The natural flavor packs the highest protein content, while raspberry contains the lowest. All yogurt pots are now available to buy from Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado, Marks & Spencer, Planet Organic, Whole Foods Market, and select independent health stores. They are priced at £3.25 for a 350g pot and £1.90 for a 120g pot.

Read more: Tiba Tempeh Launches New Smoky Block As Distribution Expands

The UK’s ‘first-ever’ high-protein, soy-free yogurt?

Nush Foods is a UK-based dairy-free brand founded in 2016 by former London police officers Bethany and Paul Eaton. Motivated by Bethany’s personal health journey and her background in nutrition, the couple set out to create a plant-based yogurt alternative that matched the taste and texture of traditional dairy products. They began by crafting almond milk yogurts in their kitchen, eventually launching Nush as the UK’s first producer of nut milk yogurts.

The new range is believed to be the first high-protein, soy-free vegan yogurt available in the UK. The products are said to be creamier, tastier, and more nutritious than previous versions.

Read more: You Can Now Buy Lion’s Mane Mushrooms In UK Supermarkets

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

The block is infused with a smoky marinade and can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, sandwiches, and pastas. It will be available on Ocado from April 18 and in Waitrose and Sainsbury’s at the end of the month. The 220g product, which retails at £3.00, is a new addition to Tiba Tempeh’s growing plant-based range, which also includes an Original Block and Sweet Chilli Pieces.

“We’re so excited to launch our new Smoky Tempeh as a natural extension to our best-selling Original Block,” said Alexandra Longton, cofounder of Tiba Tempeh, in a statement. “We’ve crafted the tastiest protein-packed tempeh,
which we know consumers will love. We think this is the tastiest tempeh on the market, and we can’t wait for people to try it.”

Read more: Pinky Cole Hayes Announces Buy-Back Of Slutty Vegan

Tiba Tempeh expands

The product launch coincides with increased retail distribution for the brand. From April 30, Waitrose will carry three of Tiba Tempeh’s products – Original Block, Sweet Chilli Pieces, and Smoky Block – in over 200 stores for the first time. The brand will appear under Waitrose’s “BrandsNew” platform, which highlights emerging brands in the food space. “We are delighted to be working with Waitrose to bring more naturally delicious and nutritious plant-based options to even more consumers,” Longton said.

Tiba Tempeh is currently the UK’s largest tempeh-only brand and has seen rapid growth despite a downturn in the overall meat-free category. The brand reports a 736 percent year-on-year increase in retail sales value, representing a £1.2 million (USD $1.5 million) rise over the past year. Longton attributes the growth to increasing consumer demand for minimally processed alternatives to conventional meat substitutes.

Read more: Vegan Restaurant Unity Diner To Return

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

Kent-based brand Urban Farm-It secured the listing for its 200g punnets of fluffy white individual mushrooms. They cost £5 a pack, and the punnet is fully recyclable. 

“Bringing this unique ingredient to consumers across the country is a huge milestone for us,” said Urban Farm-It founder Elliot Webb in a statement. “Lion’s mane is gaining recognition for its versatility in plant-based cooking, with its meaty texture making it an excellent alternative to seafood and meat.”

Read more: Better Nature Launches Tempeh With Comparable Protein To Chicken

What are the benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms?

Lion’s mane mushrooms are still a relatively niche product in the UK, but they are growing in popularity due to their versatility and apparent links to improved brain health. A growing body of research indicates that they may support cognitive function by promoting nerve growth, which helps protect and regenerate brain cells. Some studies indicate they could aid memory, focus, and even reduce symptoms of mild cognitive impairment.

In addition to their possible health benefits, they are a popular ingredient in vegan cooking due to their meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors. They can be made into convincing meat alternatives, and are particularly known for being transformed into realistic plant-based steaks, a recipe made popular by plant-based chef Derek Sarno.

Read more: Juicy Marbles Unveils ‘Market First’ Plant-Based Pork Whole Cut

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

Waitrose

For £20 at Waitrose, you can choose a starter, main, side, and dessert, plus a bottle of wine, a cocktail, beer, or an alcohol-free drink. The Meal Deal means savings of up to £18.65.

The vegan starter is Waitrose own brand No.1 Vegetable Antipasti Arancini with Basil Pesto. While pesto normally contains dairy, this one is made from basil, vegetable oils, and haricot beans, and yeast, meaning it’s safe for vegans.

The main is a pack of Juicy Marbles Thick-Cut Filet Plant-Based Steaks. For the uninitiated, Juicy Marbles makes highly realistic steak filets with soy protein and red beet juice, fortified with vitamin B12. With all the other supermarkets offering a vegan main that is some variation on a pastry pie, Waitrose provides something a little different with this option.

Read more: 10 Vegan Valentine’s Day Recipes: Starters, Mains, And Desserts

For the side, there is No 1. Green Vegetable Medley, a mix of petit pois, cavolo nero, and tenderstem broccoli in a lemon zest and roast garlic dressing. The dessert option is Waitrose Plant Living Vegan Tiramisu, made with sponge biscuit soaked in coffee sauce and a rice-based mousse. If you’re opting for wine, the Ara Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc is a vegan-friendly option.

Aldi

Aldi‘s Valentine’s Day range lets you pick whatever items you like, with the promise of wining and dining for two for under £14.

The vegan starters include Specially Selected Wild Mushroom or Tomato & Basil Arancini, and Asia Specialties Sweet & Sour Veg Love Bao Buns. The bao buns are pink and adorned with red and white hearts.

While there are no vegan sides, there is a choice of two galettes for the main. One is Mediterranean roast vegetable with a parsley crumb, and the other features chestnut mushrooms and a black truffle sauce with a sage and onion crumb.

For dessert, there is the Specially Selected Gastro Caramelised Biscuit Sponge Pudding. It’s a heart-shaped cake with a caramelized biscuit sauce and crumb. To drink, you could try the Castellore Organic Prosecco Rosé or the Castellore Chianti. 

Marks & Spencer

At £25, the M&S meal deal is a little on the expensive side, and vegans only have one choice for each course. To start, there is the 6 Mini Bao Buns, filled with mushrooms and hoisin sauce. The main is a Butternut Squash and Spinach Pie, made with a crumbly shortcrust pastry base and topped with flaky filo pastry. For a side, there are Smashes Potatoes, coated in oil and parsley and with a pot of basil oil drizzle.

The dessert option is Chocolate and Caramel Pots. The Belgian chocolate ganache is topped with sea-salted caramel sauce and crunchy cocoa nibs. There’s a large choice of vegan wines and prosecco to enjoy.

Tesco

Tesco Clubcard holders can get a meal for two for £18. To start, there is Tesco Finest Crispy Bruschetta Arancini. The arancini are filled with arborio rice, roasted and sundried tomatoes, and vegan soft cheese coated in breadcrumbs. They come with a sachet of balsamic dipping sauce.

The main is two Tesco Finest Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff Pies. A shortcrust pastry base filled with chestnut, Portobello, and dried porcini mushrooms in a white wine sauce with a puff pastry lid. Pair with the Tesco Finest Baby Potatoes with Chantenay Carrots & Tenderstem Broccoli with Smoked Garlic & Herb Dressing for the side. For dessert, Tesco is offering a limited edition Gu Plant Zillionaire Cheesecake. Finish with a glass of Nozeco.

Read more: How To Make Valentine’s Day Heart-Shaped Chocolate Truffles

Morrisons

Morrisons More Card holders can get a three-course Valentine’s meal deal for £15. The vegan options are Morrisons The Best Valentine’s 4 Vegetable Rose Bao Buns. The buns are bright red and shaped like roses, filled with mixed vegetables seasoned with garlic and ginger.

For the main, there is Morrisons Plant Revolution 2 Mushroom, Spinach & Pinenut Wellingtons. They contain a mix of mushrooms, caramelized onion, and rice wrapped in a crisp puff pastry. Pair with Morrisons The Best Valentine’s Triple Cooked Chips and the Green Vegetable Medley, containing peas, runner beans, and green beans in a lemon, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil dressing.

For afters, Morrisons The Best Valentine’s 2 Vegan Tiramisu in individual pots should do the job. Wash it all down with Morrisons The Best Prosecco.

Sainsbury’s

Nectar card holders can dine in for two for £18 with this range from Sainsbury’s. To start, vegans can enjoy the Taste the Difference Olive & Antipasti Platter. It features chargrilled artichoke quarters in a garlic and thyme dressing, semi-dried tomatoes in a garlic and oregano dressing, and pitted Gordal olives in lemon and herbs.

For sides there are the Taste the Difference Chunky Triple Cook Chips and Rainbow Chard Vegetable Medley, a mix of peas, spring greens, and rainbow chard in a wild garlic and black pepper dressing. Pair with the vegan main of a mushroom wellington, whimsically named There’s Shroom in My Heart Mushroom Wellington. It’s two individual puff pastry parcels filled with seasoned Portobello and chestnut mushrooms and topped with pastry hearts.

There are many vegan drink options on offer, including Sainsbury’s Seville Orange Gin & Tonic and Nozeco for those who want the bubbles without the booze.

For dessert, enjoy two slices of chocolate torte with a chocolate cookie base and topped with cocoa batter. Sainsbury’s has put effort into its puns again, naming it I’m Torte-ally in Love with You.

Asda

Asda has one of the cheaper offers going, with a three-course meal, including two side dishes, and a drink for £11.97.

Bistro by Asda Breaded No-Brie Hearts make an indulgent starter, to be followed by Bistro by Asda 2 Mushroom Stroganoff Pies.

With Bistro by ASDA Triple Cook Chips and Braised Red Cabbage, vegans need not miss out on the two sides offer. While this all may be sounding more like a Christmas dinner than a Valentine’s meal, the dessert option of strawberries with Belgian Chocolate Dip swings it back towards the romantic.

Wash it down with Kylie Minogue’s Alcohol Free Sparkling Rose Wine.

Co-op

Co-op is offering the lowest price of all the supermarkets this Valentine’s Day at just £10 for membership card holders or £12 for non-members. But the low cost also means more limited options, with only a main, side, and drink included. The Co-op Irresistible Triple Cooked Thick Cut Chunky Chips and Roasted Garlic and Parsley Flatbread are the vegan side options. The main follows most of the other supermarkets in being a mushroom wellington. The drinks on offer are all from the Co-op Irresistible range and are all vegan.

Read more: Are Love Hearts Vegan?

This article was written by Claire Hamlett on the PBN Website.

Read more: How To Cater For Vegans This Christmas

This year, Sainsbury’s has announced that it’s bringing back some of its most popular items from 2023 as well as adding new products to the range. There are showstopping mains, party food, sides, and puddings from Sainsbury’s Plant Pioneers and Taste the Difference ranges.

Read more: M&S Launches Vegan Speculoos Cookies In Light-Up Tin

Mains

No Turkey Stuffed Crown (£7.50)

This star centerpiece from Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference brand makes a return this year. Made with soya protein, this No Turkey Stuffed Crown has a sage and onion stuffing and a buttery melt to baste and season as the crown cooks. It’s topped with smoky vegan bacon rashers for extra indulgence.

Mushroom Wellington (£8.50)

This wellington is stuffed with a rich mix of portobello, chestnut, and porcini mushrooms along with baby onions, tender leaf spinach, and a hint of thyme. Adorned with hand-crafted pastry holly leaves, it’s reminiscent of its meaty counterpart.

Roast Carrot Galette (£.8.50)

A vegan take on the French tart, this galette is new for 2024. It combines harissa roasted carrots and zesty vegan orange cream, topped with a herby crumb.

Melt in the Middle Nut Roast (£7.50)

A nut roast is a classic vegan Christmas main. This one is a variation on Sainsbury’s 2023 offering. It’s made with vegetables, nuts, beans, and buckwheat. A whole-nut topping lends it an extra crunch, while a surprise melting fruity center provides a dash of sweetness.

Party Food

YO! Crispy Vegan Sharing Platter (£8)

From sushi brand YO! comes this sharing platter featuring sweet inari nigiri and three varieties of vegetable rolls. accompanied with crispy onions for topping, sweet teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, pickled ginger and wasabi condiments.

Ice Ice Bao-by Penguins (£6)

In 2023, Sainsbury’s brought us Baos of Holly. This year, it’s upped its cuteness with these penguin-themed bao buns. They’re filled with a mixture of tasty char sui vegetables and mushrooms, including king oyster and shiitake.

Dinky Dim Sum Veggie Selection (£5.25)

These Taste the Difference dim sum are available in packs of 12. They’re handmade to look like mini carrots, tomatoes, and pea pods. Each are filled accordingly with carrot and orange, tomato and basil, or pea and mint.

Sides

Plant Pioneers Cumberland Shroomdogs (£5)

Plant Pioneers is popular for its plant-based meat alternatives, including Shroomdogs. Made from mushrooms and pea protein with a peppery seasoning, they will go perfectly alongside some mashed potatoes, roasted veg, and the main event.

Vegan Trimmings Selection (£7.50)

These moreish morsels are sure to be eaten up in quick order. A pack contains 10 peppery vegan mushroom sausages wrapped in vegan bacon and 12 mushroom stuffing balls lightly seasoned with sage and cracked black pepper. The sausages and mushroom balls can also be bought separately. Perfect as a starter, a side, or a snack while dinner is in the oven.

Pudding

Chocolate Cookie Torte (£11)

Last year’s indulgent Chocolate Cookie Torte is back again. The baked chocolate torte has a chocolate cookie crumb base below a smooth coconut milk and chocolate layer with pockets of chocolate sauce. Topped with Belgian dark chocolate curls and cocoa powder, it’s an show-stopping dessert to finish off your Christmas meal.

When can I order from the vegan range?

The range is available to order ahead to be collected from December 22. The Christmas range will be available from December 6 to buy in store.

Read more: 25 Authentic Vegan Christmas Recipes For The Holiday Season

This article was written by Claire Hamlett on the PBN Website.

Read more: Plastic Bags On Beaches Have Reduced By 80% Since Charge Introduced

Both supermarkets announced their respective decisions this month, with an estimated combined saving of more than 50 million pieces of plastic per year. The replacement lid is similar to those widely used to top many yogurts, creams, and some desserts.

While many customers have expressed their support for the sustainability measures, others criticized the use of non-recyclable, non-resealable film. Some have taken to using cling film to cover opened hummus pots, and others suggested the move will result in food waste.

Tesco and Sainsbury’s reminded customers that their hummus should be eaten within two days of opening, and said that the removal of rigid plastic lids does not reduce overall quality or shelf life. Both Tesco and Sainsbury’s also sell reusable silicone lids in several sizes.

“We have recently removed the lids on our hummus pots as part of our ongoing efforts to tackle plastic waste,” a Tesco spokesperson told the Guardian. “This latest change will remove more than 31m pieces of plastic – equivalent to 157 tonnes of plastic a year.”

Read more: Plastic-Eating Fungi Could Help Tackle Plastic Pollution

The UK Plastics Pact and reducing packaging waste

Both Tesco and Sainsbury’s are signatories of 2018’s UK Plastics Pact, which brings together businesses “from across the entire plastics value chain” to tackle waste. Led by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), the pact’s core 2025 targets include:

The elimination of unnecessary single-use packaging; For all packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable; The effective recycling of 70 percent of plastic packaging; And a 30 percent average recycled content across all plastic packaging.

Tesco has said that its ongoing goal of reducing plastic to “an absolute minimum” has saved over 5,900 tonnes of packaging, thanks to measures such as its popular plastic-free “tattooed” avocados. Meanwhile, Sainsbury’s also made a 90 percent reduction in packaging across its baked goods section earlier this month, saving over 400 tonnes of plastic annually.

Read more: 81% Of USA Sandwich Bags Contain Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’

This article was written by Liam Pritchett on the PBN Website.

Traditional Christmas dinners generally consist of a number of animal products. A popular centerpiece is turkey, while pigs in blankets, goose fat, various dairy products, and non-vegan stuffing make up the rest. There is growing understanding of the huge ethical implications of eating these products, however, and veganism is skyrocketing in popularity throughout the UK. Around 1.2 billion land animals are slaughtered for food in the country each year. Most of these (around 85 percent) are raised on factory farms, and those who aren’t have still generally suffer brutal lives and painful deaths.

A few years ago, Christmas as a vegan may have been a stressful experience. Aside from the constant “where do you get your protein?” questions from relatives, plant-based Christmas food was generally limited to a nut roast and a few sprouts. In 2023, however, you can enjoy pretty much any traditional food items you want as a vegan – and you can buy these at mainstream supermarkets. From M&S to Aldi, here’s what you can buy this year.

Marks and Spencer vegan Christmas food

At M&S, you can find a wide range of plant-based Christmas food. If you’re a fan of turkey, Marks and Spencer is offering a No Turkey Joint as part of its Plant Kitchen range. The product is made from pea protein, which is a popular ingredient in meat alternatives, and its filled with a cranberry, onion, and chestnut stuffing.

If fake meats aren’t your thing, you can choose from a variety of vegetable-based centerpieces instead. The Plant Kitchen Roast Butternut Squash & Spinach Pie consists of butternut squash, carrot and spinach in a shortcrust pastry. The Plant Kitchen Butternut, Almond & Pecan Nut Roast is a new take on the classic nut roast, featuring an array of mixed nuts alongside roasted butternut squash, as well as bulgur wheat, cannellini beans, and cranberries, all finished off with a red wine and thyme gravy.

M&S is one of the many UK supermarkets offering vegan pigs in blankets. The Plant Kitchen 12 Vegan Pigs in Blankets feature meat-free cocktail sausages wrapped in ‘bacon’. You can also buy vegan Pigs In Duvets, which are sausages and chorizo sausages wrapped in pastry. If you’re looking for convenience on the big day, you can buy the Plant Kitchen Vegan Vegetable Selection. This is a selection of sides that features red cabbage, roast potatoes, a cauliflower and leek bake, and a garnish selection. If you fancy something a little bit more luxurious, you can try the Plant Kitchen Mushroom Parfait with a Port Glaze. This blend of mushrooms comes with a sweet apple and port glaze. Plant Kitchen also offers its own gravy.

For dessert, there’s a vegan chocolate torte. You can also buy Plant Kitchen Mince Pies, an M&S Made Without Christmas Pudding 6 Month Matured, and even a Plant Kitchen No Cheeseboard Selection.

Find the full range of vegan Christmas food at M&S in 2023 here.

Asda vegan Christmas food

Asda has an extensive vegan range named OMV!, which is offering a wide array of festive food this year.

Perhaps Asda’s most notable Christmas launch this year is its OMV! Vegan No Turkey, which has been developed to resemble an entire turkey. The turkey is made from a blend of soya, wheat, and pea proteins. It is bright white in color inside of the ‘crown’. The ‘legs’ have a darker colour, more juicy texture, and more intense flavor.

If this is too realistic for your tastes but you still fancy a turkey alternative, you can opt for the OMV! Deliciously Vegan No Turkey & Trimmings For One or OMV! No Turkey Crown. For the veggie fans, there is a OMV! Oyster & Porcini Mushroom Wellington, which features oyster and porcini mushrooms bound with pea protein, which are topped with minced mushrooms, onion, herbs, and black pepper. Alternatively, you can go for the OMV! Festive Butternut & Chestnut Roast, a blend of butternut squash, chestnuts, kale, bulgur wheat, and onion. This roast is topped off with a clementine and maple glaze.

Asda offers OMV! Mushroom Pigs in Smoky Aubergine Bacon, a more vegetable-based take on vegan pigs in blankets. You can also buy the OMV! Deliciously Vegan Christmas Trimmings Selection, which consists of popular sides like stuffing balls, pigs in blankets, and cocktail sausages.

For dessert, the OMV! Strawberry Trifle, OMV! Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts, and OMV! 4 Crumble Top Mince Pies are all available to buy.

Find the full range of vegan Christmas food at Asda in 2023 here.

Sainsbury’s vegan Christmas food

Sainsbury’s also has a number of vegan Christmas mains, whether you’re a fan of meat alternatives or vegetables.

Its ​​Taste the Difference Three Nut Roast features pistachios, cashews, and almonds as its base, which are mixed together with mushroom, dried cranberries, spinach, and butternut squash. This main is served with a spiced orange and cranberry glaze. For the meat fans, you can buy a Taste The Difference No Turkey Stuffed Crown, which comes with a vegan bacon lattice. Other options include a Taste the Difference No Beef Wellington, which consists of a mushroom and pea protein-based vegan alternative to beef.

If you fancy something a bit different, you can opt for the Taste the Difference Maple Parsnip, Chestnut & Sage Wreath, which includes a maple roasted parsnips, chestnuts, and vegan cheese.

Sainsbury’s shoppers can also get vegan pigs in blankets – the Plant Pioneers Shroompups In Blankets is a pack of 10 mushroom sausages wrapped in vegan bacon. The Plant Pioneers Sage & Onion Stuffing Balls is another side available.

The Taste the Difference Baos of Holly are bao buns filled with wood ear mushrooms, carrots, water chestnuts, and spring onion. The Taste the Difference Korean Style Cauliflower Popcorn consist of cauliflower popcorn nuggets alongside a Korean-inspired seasoning.

Sweet treats include the Taste the Difference Chocolate Cookie Torte, Taste the Difference Free From Ginger & Chocolate Tiffin, Taste the Difference Free From Salted Caramel Chocs, and Taste the Difference Free From Mini Mince Pies.

Find the full range of vegan Christmas food at Asda in 2023 here.

Waitrose vegan Christmas food

Upmarket supermarket Waitrose is also offering a unique take on a traditional nut roast. The Ultimate Triple Nut Roast features roasted nuts, sweet potato, chickpeas, lentils, and miso. It comes complete with a spiced clementine and apricot chutney glaze.

There are also a number of turkey products on offer. The Chestnut and Thyme Plant-Based Turkey Roast and Gravy is a soya-based turkey crown alternative that you can carve like the real thing. You can also buy the Plantliving Chestnut & Thyme Plant Based Turkey Roast, Gravy, And Festive Sides. As well as the roast, this bundle includes pigs in blankets and stuffed ‘Christmas trees’.

If you’re a fan of beef wellington, this No 1 Ultimate Vegan Sharing Wellington contains a plant-based beef alternative braised in garlic, shallot, and thyme vegetable stock.

In terms of party food and sides, Waitrose has an extensive vegan selection. You can buy the 22-Piece Plantliving Festive Cocktail Sausage Selection, which features maple, date, and chestnut cocktail sausages, vegan turkey cocktail sausages, and spiced mushroom ‘chorizo’ sausages in a puff pastry. Another option is the Plant Pigs In Blankets, an alternative to the traditional dish. There is also the Festive Cocktail Sausage Selection, which features different flavored cocktail sausages, and Plant Chorizo Pigs In Puffers, chorizo-alternatives wrapped in pastry.

For dessert, you can buy the No 1 Millionaire’s Torte.

Find the full range of vegan Christmas food at Waitrose in 2023 here.

Aldi vegan Christmas food

Budget retailer Aldi is offering its biggest ever vegan range this year. Unusually, its line-up features a plant-based “gammon,” a vegan take on the pork-based ham. The Specially Selected No Gammon Joint with Orange Marmalade Glaze can either be served up as a main or as cold cuts over the Christmas period.

The Plant Menu No Turkey Roast with Vegan Bacon Crumb is a soya-based turkey joint, which comes filled with a cranberry and chestnut stuffing. It also comes topped with a vegan bacon crumb. The Specially Selected Festive Vegetable Wellington is a pea protein log mixed with mushroom, onion, and other vegetables. The ​​Specially Selected No Beef Wellington features soya-based beef alongside roatsed mushroom duxelles.

Aldi’s Specially Selected Vegan Festive Wreath won an award last year, and it’s back for the 2023 festive season. It features stuffing made from butternut squash, cranberries, chestnuts, and pumpkin seeds, and it’s topped with candied orange slices alongside a mulled festive glaze.

The Aldi party food range is extensive. The Plant Menu Southern Fried No Chicken Stars consists of 10 soya protein vegan chicken star-shaped nuggets. The Plant Menu No Tempura Prawns are vegan ‘prawns’ made from potato starch and rice protein. You can also buy the Plant Menu No Chilli Cheese Bites (vegan cheese blended pickled chilies) and Plant Menu No Duck Spring Rolls (pulled jackfruit in a hoisin-style sauce).

Aldi also offers Plant Menu Ultimate Vegan Pigs in Blankets, as well as Specially Selected Vegetable and Potato Rostis, which are available in two veggie combinations. The Specially Selected Celeriac and Broccoli Vegetable Bake features Celeriac and broccoli in a creamy sauce, which is topped with roasted sliced potato and vegan cheese.

For dessert, you can buy the Vegan Cookie Pot or Specially Selected Vegan Truffles.

Find the full range of vegan Christmas food at Aldi in 2023 here.

Tesco vegan Christmas food

Tesco is offering two vegan turkey alternatives this year – the Tesco Plant Chef No-Turkey Crown with Herb Stuffing and Wicked Kitchen No-Turkey Roast Crown. The former is made from broad bean and pea protein, while the latter consists of pea and wheat protein.

If you prefer something vegetable-based, you can buy the Tesco Finest Stuffed Half Butternut Squash, which is filled with apple, beetroot, and green lentils and topped with a seed and herb crumb mix. Tesco’s new take on the nut roast is the Plant Chef Seasonal Seeded Roasts with Port Gravy, which features pumpkin and sunflower seeds alongside lentils, kale, chestnuts, and mushroom. Alternatively, you can try the Plant Chef Roasted Vegetable Parcels, which feature parsnip, carrot, and kale in puff pastry, or the Plant Chef Butternut Wellington, which features butternut squash and pea protein.

Tesco also offers a festive wreath, which is made from mushrooms, chestnuts, butternut squash, lentils, and caramelised red onion, and topped with cranberries.

In terms of sides and party food, you can buy Plant Chef 6 Mini Katsu Inspired Bao Buns, Plant Chef 10 Paella Inspired Arancini Bites, Plant Chef 10 Mini Mediterranean Inspired Vegetable Lattices, and more.

Tesco also has a wide range of desserts, including Tesco Finest Stem Ginger Tiffin Cracker, Tesco Finest Free From Honeycomb Bauble, Tesco Free From Christmas Pudding, and Wicked Kitchen Spiced Rum Christmas Pudding.

Find the full range of Tesco Christmas food at Aldi in 2023 here.

More like this:

• Greggs Unveils Vegan Christmas Menu For 2023
• Jane Horrocks Stars In New Ad Depicting Cruelty Of ‘Christmas Turkeys’
• You Can Now Buy Vegan Brandy Cream For Christmas

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

While the British supermarket brand is usually quite quiet on its releases and its plant-based range, we’ve previously seen snippets of new products. Like its vegan patisserie cakes. Earlier this year, it announced that its vegan product sales were up nine percent from the previous year during Veganuary. The supermarket’s Taste the Difference and Plant Pioneers range are the two main stars for this festive period. Here’s everything you’ll find in store and online in the range. 

Find out all the vegan Christmas food you can buy at UK Supermarkets here

Jump to section:

• Party food
• Mains
• Sides
• Desserts
• When can I order Sainsbury’s Christmas food?

Sainsbury’s Christmas party food 

Taste the Difference Baos of Holly

New for this year. Hand-crafted bao buns filled with a mix of wood ear mushrooms, water chestnuts, carrots, and spring onion. With Ginger and garlic for extra taste. They’re then finished with a novelty holly decoration on the bun to look like little Christmas puddings. Launching in mid-November, in time for Christmas parties.

Cost: £6 

Taste the Difference Korean Style Cauliflower Popcorn 

Designed to be easy finger food. Bite-size cauliflower popcorn nuggets, with a Korean-inspired seasoning.

Cost: £5.25

Sainsbury’s vegan mains

​​Taste the Difference Three Nut Roast 

Returning as a popular main dish from last year’s range. Blitzed up pistachios, almonds, and cashews make the base for its three nut roast. Mixed with mushroom, spinach, dried cranberries, and butternut squash. It’s served with a spiced orange and cranberry glaze on top.

Cost: £7

Taste the Difference Lattice topped Vacon rashers No Turkey Crown

Mushroom and soya protein forms the crown, with a vegan ‘turkey’ flavor. It’s then hand-finished with a vegan bacon lattice.

Cost: £7.25

Taste the Difference No Beef Wellington 

A new one for this year. A mushroom and pea protein forms the base of this beef-like alternative wellington. It’s then mixed with spinach and topped in a mushroom and port wine duxelle. Finished hand-wrapped in a crisp puff pastry.

Cost: £6.75

Taste the Difference Maple Parsnip, Chestnut & Sage Wreath

Another new dish for this year. Sainsbury’s wreath includes maple roasted parsnips, chestnuts, and a coconut oil alternative to cheese. It’s then wrapped in puff pastry and topped with sage and onion breadcrumbs.

Cost: £7.25

Taste the Difference No Turkey Stuffed Crown 

A turkey-flavored mushroom and soya protein-based crown. In the center, there’s a sage and onion stuffing to add in extra moisture as it cooks. Comes with a sage and onion melt for basting on top, too. This will give extra flavor and moisture.

Cost: £7.25

Sainsbury’s vegan sides

Plant Pioneers Shroompups In Blankets 

A pack of 10 seasoned mushroom sausages. The ‘shroompups’ are then wrapped in vegan bacon rashers made from wheat gluten and coconut milk.

Cost: £3.50

Plant Pioneers Sage & Onion Stuffing Balls 

Mushroom and onion stuffing balls. Seasoned with cracked black pepper and sage.

Cost: £3.50

Sainsbury’s vegan desserts

Taste the Difference Chocolate Cookie Torte 

A new dessert to the range this year. A dark chocolate and cookie biscuit crumb base. It’s then layered with coconut and cocoa butter, chocolate sauce, dark chocolate shavings, and a sweet cocoa powder glaze.

Cost: £10

Taste the Difference Free From Ginger & Chocolate Tiffin

Already available in stores from the Free From section. Five gluten free, milk free and egg free tiffin squares of Belgian dark chocolate and sweetened stem ginger pieces. Topped with another layer of bittersweet Belgian dark chocolate.

Cost: £3 

Taste the Difference Free From Salted Caramel Chocs

Also returning in the Free From section (and available now). Vegan chocolates flavored with a salted caramel center. The chocolate is made using a combination of cocoa and cocoa butter to create a more creamy texture. While sea salt is added to the caramel to balance out the sweet.

Cost: £4

Taste the Difference Free From Mini Mince Pies

A box of nine vegan and gluten-free mini mince pies. Turkish sultanas, orange peel, and Bramley apple are combined with a bit of French brandy for the filling. Encased in a biscuit-like pastry.

Cost: £3.25

by Sainsbury’s Free From Mince Pies

A pack of four Free From mince pieces, already available in store. A spiced mincemeat filling including cinnamon, apple puree, orange peel, and sultanas. Encased in gluten-free pastry.

Cost: £2 

by Sainsbury’s Free From Iced Mince Pies

Already available, this pack of four mince pies includes the same spiced mincemeat filling and gluten-free pastry as above, only topped with a layer of fondant icing.

Cost: £2.50

by Sainsbury’s Free From Christmas Pudding

A traditional style Christmas pudding with sultanas, raisins, rum, and cider. It’s available in stores in the Free From section in two sizes (100g and 400g).

Cost: £1.50/£4 

When can I order Sainsbury’s Christmas food?

Already available in store and online:

• Taste the Difference Free From Ginger & Chocolate Tiffin
• Taste the Difference Free From Salted Caramel Chocs
• Taste the Difference Free From Mini Mince Pies
• by Sainsbury’s Free From Mince Pies
• by Sainsbury’s Free From Iced Mince Pies
• by Sainsbury’s Free From Christmas Pudding

Available from Wednesday, November 15: 

• Taste the Difference Baos of Holly
• Taste the Difference Korean Style Cauliflower Popcorn
• Taste the Difference No Beef Wellington

Available from Wednesday, December 6: 

• Taste the Difference Three Nut Roast
• Taste the Difference Lattice topped Vacon rashers No Turkey Crown
• Taste the Difference Maple Parsnip, Chestnut & Sage Wreath
• Taste the Difference No Turkey Stuffed Crown
• Plant Pioneers Shroompups In Blankets
• Plant Pioneers Sage & Onion Stuffing Balls

Available from Wednesday, December 20: 

Taste the Difference Chocolate Cookie Torte 

More like this:

• Waitrose Christmas Food 2023: Full List Of Vegan Options
• Aldi Vegan Christmas Food 2023: Full List Of Plant-Based Options
• Tesco Vegan Christmas Food 2023: Full List Of Options

This article was written by Tamsin Wressell on the PBN Website.

The study, which comes from environmental campaign group Feedback, found that shops like Tesco and Sainsbury’s appear to be prioritizing meat and dairy sales over the climate. 

Greenwashing refers to a form of marketing spin that’s intended to convince consumers an environmentally damaging product is eco-friendly. According to the report, all major supermarkets are promoting “minor green initiatives” while avoiding taking significant action on the impact of the animal products they sell. Authors highlight that around a third of supermarkets’ emissions come from these foods. 

Report findings

Tesco promoting its network of green delivery vans named “Greener Greens” is mentioned in the report. According to authors, when they are at full capacity in 2030, these vans will only represent a saving of 0.1 percent of Tesco’s total emissions.

The report also points out that Aldi UK and Ireland’s claim that it has been “carbon neutral since 2019” only applies to around five percent of emissions in stores and head office. It doesn’t account for the rest of the emissions relating to foods it sells. 

Sainsbury’s recently stated that it is “helping our customers choose healthy and sustainable diets.” Authors note, however, that its recently launched value “Stamford Street Co” range features over 35 products containing meat and/or dairy, while only 12 fruit or vegetable products. 

“It’s astonishing that greenwashing is rife across the industry with all the UK’s largest supermarkets employing ‘distraction’ type green initiatives, which make little impact on their overall footprint yet serve to deflect attention from the real issues,” commented Jessica Sinclair Taylor, Head of Policy at Feedback.

“It’s clear from our findings that retailers are still focused on boosting meat sales despite setting net zero targets and pledging to help us eat healthier and more sustainably – and this must now change.” 

The environmental impact of animal agriculture

There’s no doubt that animal farming is catastrophic for the planet. While the environmental conversation has tended to focus solely on fossil fuels, many experts believe livestock to be just as – if not more – damaging. It’s responsible for at least 14.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, but emissions themselves are just the start. 

The industry is a leading cause of deforestation, and has been causal in around 91 percent of Amazon destruction. As such, it is driving biodiversity loss and species extinction. It’s also been identified as a key contributor to water pollution. 

What do supermarkets need to do?

Despite this, supermarkets across the country continue to promote meat. Study authors are calling on companies to be transparent about how much of their climate footprints come from meat. 

They are also asking for a “clear and realistic” pathway to net zero emissions, including targets to sell less of their most damaging products. 

The authors would also like supermarkets to stop promoting meat and dairy, in the same way some retailers aren’t promoting high sugar products. 

Those interested can sign Feedback’s petition here

More like this:

• How To Beat Inflation And Save Money On Groceries: A Guide For Plant-Based Eaters
• ‘There Is No Alternative’: Lidl Announces Plans To Reduce Meat In Stores
• Experts Concerned As Hike In Vegan Food Sales Doesn’t Lead To A Decline In Meat’s

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

Every major U.K supermarket has now dropped two Thai coconut brands following an investigation into monkey labor, according to vegan charity PETA.

The organization recently released footage it said was taped at eight farms where the animals are forced to pick coconuts for export around the world, four ‘monkey schools’, and at a coconut-picking competition.

Dropping brands

As a result of the footage, Waitrose, Tesco, Co-op, Boots, Ocado, Morrisons, and others pledged to ditch products that used monkey labor.

Now, PETA reports, Sainsbury’s has joined them in the two dropping brands implicated in the investigation – Aroy-D and Chaokoh.

According to Reuters, ‘an Aroy-D spokeswoman disputed the report and said British retailers did not consult it before their announcements’, and ‘Chaokoh did not reply to queries on Monday’.

‘Grateful’

“These curious, highly intelligent animals are denied psychological stimulation, companionship, freedom, and everything else that would make their lives worth living, all so that they can be used to gather coconuts,” PETA senior corporate liaison, Dr. Carys Bennett, said.

“PETA is grateful to British supermarkets for taking swift action to rid their shelves of these unethical products, and we urge the Thai government to take meaningful steps towards ending the vile practice of using monkeys to harvest coconuts.”

Denial

Thai commerce minister Jurin Laksanawisit claimed monkey labor is ‘almost non-existent’ following the release of the investigation, Reuters reports.

“Using monkeys for the coconut industry is almost non-existent,” Laksanawisit told reporters, adding that monkey labor had been replaced by human labor a long time ago.

He added: “But there may still be the pictures of monkey collecting coconuts for tourism on video clips, which created a misunderstanding.”

‘Makes the public angrier’

But PETA senior vice president Jason Baker has disputed Laksanawisit’s claims – and said denying the ‘extreme cruelty’ will only further inflame public emotion.

He said: “PETA’s investigation footage was captured recently on plantations and training schools.

“When the government tries to explain away extreme cruelty to monkeys, it only makes the public angrier.”

This article was written by Maria Chiorando on the PBN Website.