I Tried the New Meal Deal Options at Sainsbury’s – Are They Any Good?
Sainsbury’s meal deal has long been a lunchtime staple for UK shoppers, offering a quick, convenient, and cost-effective way to grab a bite during the workday. In 2025, the supermarket chain introduced several new items and made notable changes to its meal deal lineup. But with rising prices and evolving consumer expectations, the question remains: are these new options worth it?
Price Adjustments: A Closer Look
In June 2025, Sainsbury’s increased the price of its standard meal deal from £3.75 to £3.95, marking the second price hike in under a year. The premium meal deal, which includes higher-end options, remained priced at £5. While the supermarket defended the price increase, citing a wide range of choices and new products, many customers expressed frustration over the rising costs (FoodManufacture.co.uk).
New Additions: What’s on the Menu?
1. Covent Garden Soup
One of the most talked-about additions is the inclusion of 280g cartons of Covent Garden soup—available in chicken and tomato flavors—as a snack option across all meal deal tiers. This move has been praised as a “game-changer,” especially for colder months, offering a warm and hearty alternative to traditional snacks (The Sun).
2. Build-Your-Own Salad
Responding to the growing demand for healthier options, Sainsbury’s introduced a build-your-own salad component to its meal deal. Customers can now select from a variety of fresh ingredients to create a personalized salad, catering to diverse dietary preferences (FoodManufacture.co.uk).
3. Picnic Triple Sandwich
Another new item is the Picnic Triple Sandwich, which combines three different sandwiches into one convenient package. This offering provides variety and is ideal for those seeking a more substantial lunch option (FoodManufacture.co.uk).
4. Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnut
For those with a sweet tooth, the addition of a Krispy Kreme Glazed Doughnut as a snack option adds a touch of indulgence to the meal deal. This popular treat is sure to be a hit among dessert lovers (FoodManufacture.co.uk).
Customer Reactions: Mixed Reviews
While some customers have welcomed the new additions, others have expressed concerns. The price increase has been a point of contention, with many feeling that the value proposition has diminished. Additionally, the inclusion of alcohol-free beers like Corona Cero in the premium meal deal has sparked debate. Etiquette experts have cautioned against consuming such beverages during work hours, suggesting it may send the wrong message (The Times).
Comparing Sainsbury’s Meal Deal to Competitors
In the competitive landscape of supermarket lunch deals, Sainsbury’s meal deal stands out for its variety and quality. However, other retailers like Tesco and Asda have also made strides in enhancing their meal deal offerings. Tesco, for instance, has introduced new items and improved its value proposition, while Asda has revamped its deal to include a main, snack, and drink at a competitive price (The Sun).
Positive Feedback:
- Many customers have welcomed the inclusion of Covent Garden soups in the meal deal, especially during colder months. One shopper noted, “The soup is a game-changer for winter lunches.” Others appreciate the variety and quality of the new options.
Concerns and Criticisms:
- The recent price increase from £3.75 to £3.95 has been met with frustration. A Reddit user commented, “Honestly I just tend not to eat at work anymore. Eating’s too expensive.” Some customers feel the value proposition is diminishing.
Comparisons with Competitors:
- In comparison, Asda’s recent changes to its meal deal have also stirred mixed reactions. While some appreciate the new fixed-price deal, others miss the flexibility of the previous “three for two” offer. This highlights the competitive nature of supermarket meal deals and the importance of balancing variety, quality, and price.
Conclusion:
Sainsbury’s new meal deal options offer a mix of innovative additions and familiar choices. While many customers appreciate the variety and quality, the recent price increase has raised concerns about value. As the supermarket landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Sainsbury’s adapts to customer feedback and competitor offerings.