Tesco has announced the return of its popular 'Free Fruit for Kids' initiative, which began on Monday, April 27. The programme provides complimentary fruit to young shoppers across the UK, aiming to encourage healthier eating habits among children.
Programme Details and Duration
The five-week scheme will run until May 31. Children accompanying their families to larger Tesco branches can collect free British-grown fresh apples at the tills. Click and Collect shoppers at over 100 larger outlets can also receive free apples for their youngsters. The retailer plans to maintain this programme throughout school breaks for the remainder of 2026.
Research Findings and Motivation
Tesco's latest research revealed that only one in 10 children currently consume their recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables daily. The supermarket aims to encourage households across the nation to increase their fruit and vegetable consumption. More than a third (37.5%) of parents reported that their child rejects fruit and vegetables completely.
Tesco stated: "The scheme builds on Tesco's commitment to making healthier choices easier for families, encouraging children to enjoy fruit as part of their day while shopping with their parents or carers. By providing access to free fruit beyond term time, Tesco aims to support families during school holidays, when routines change and access to healthy food can be more challenging."
Expansion of School Programme
From September 2026, Tesco will double its 'Free Fruit and Veg for School' initiative, expanding from 500 to over 1,000 schools and benefiting more than 388,000 pupils. Shoppers can contribute to the scheme by making donations each time they purchase fruits and vegetables at the retailer until May 24, as reported by the Mirror.
Ken Murphy, Tesco Group CEO, commented: "We've set out an ambition to help one million children get free fruit and veg through our school and community programmes, supporting the development of healthy habits. Schools have told us what a positive impact the Tesco Free Fruit and Veg for Schools programme has already made, so we're delighted to be able to double the number of schools receiving support from September."
Expert Endorsement
Elaine Hindal, Chief Executive of the British Nutrition Foundation, added: "A significant number of children in the UK are growing up with diets that don't support their health. Early food experiences matter, as they can help to shape children's confidence, habits and long-term health outcomes. By helping children enjoy and regularly eat fruit and vegetables from a young age, programmes like Tesco Free Fruit and Veg for Schools can help to make a lasting difference to diet and health now and in the future."
The initiative underscores Tesco's commitment to promoting healthy eating among children and supporting families during school holidays. By providing free fruit in stores and expanding school programmes, the retailer aims to foster long-term healthy habits in young consumers.
