The UK’s meal deal culture has become increasingly vegan-friendly, with major retailers and food chains expanding their plant-based options. Let’s explore the best and worst vegan meal deals currently available on the high street.
1. Boots
Boots has significantly improved its vegan offering in recent years. Their meal deal includes a main, snack, and drink.
Best Options: The retailer excels with their Plant Kitchen range. Their Vegan No-Chicken and Sweetcorn sandwich is a standout choice, offering great value and taste. Pair it with Trek protein bars and coconut water for a nutritionally balanced meal. The vegan sushi options are also noteworthy, especially the Sweet Chili Vegetable Roll.
Worst Options: The Vegan Cheese and Pickle sandwich tends to be dry and lacks protein content. The hummus wrap, while convenient, often contains minimal filling for the price point.
2. Tesco
Tesco offers one of the most comprehensive vegan meal deal selections at a competitive price point.
Best Options: The Plant Chef Mediterranean Vegetable Pasta stands out for both portion size and flavor. Their Falafel and Hummus wrap is consistently fresh and well-filled. For maximum value, combine with their own-brand protein smoothie and vegan-friendly snacks like Nature Valley bars.
Worst Options: Skip the basic salad bowls, which often lack protein and substance. The Cheese-Free Ploughman’s sandwich is frequently disappointing in terms of filling quantity.
3. Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s has invested in developing their plant-based range, though options can be limited at smaller stores.
Best Options: Their Plant Pioneers No Chicken Caesar Wrap is excellent, rivaling non-vegan alternatives. The Moroccan-Style Vegetable Lunch Bowl offers good value and nutrition. Complete the deal with their own-brand coconut water and vegan dark chocolate options.
Worst Options: The basic vegetable sandwich selections often lack creativity and protein content. Their vegan sushi options tend to be overpriced for the portion size.
4. Co-op
Co-op’s Gro range has made their meal deals more vegan-friendly, though availability varies by location.
Best Options: The Gro Chick’n Caesar Wrap is a reliable choice with good protein content. Their falafel and hummus offerings are consistently fresh. Consider adding their own-brand fruit smoothies and vegan crisps to complete the deal.
Worst Options: The basic salad options often lack substantial ingredients and can feel overpriced. The vegetable sandwich selection can be uninspiring.
5. M&S
While more expensive, M&S offers some premium vegan options in their Plant Kitchen range.
Best Options: The No Chicken Kiev wrap is outstanding, offering both flavor and substance. Their Rainbow Veg Sushi is consistently fresh and well-prepared. Complete with their own-brand pressed juices and vegan snack options.
Worst Options: The basic vegetable sandwich options don’t justify the premium price point. Some of their vegan pasta salads can be bland and overpriced.
6. WHSmith
WHSmith’s vegan options have improved, though they’re still somewhat limited.
Best Options: Their partnership with Crussh has introduced better vegan options, including the Chickpea & Falafel sandwich. Their drink selection is extensive, and they stock a good range of vegan-friendly snacks.
Worst Options: The basic vegetable sandwich options often lack creativity and freshness. Avoid the pre-packed salads, which tend to be basic and overpriced.
Tips for Getting the Best Value
- Always Use Store Cards: The savings with loyalty cards can be substantial, especially at Boots and Tesco.
- Check Expiry Dates: Many stores reduce prices on shorter-dated items later in the day.
- Mix and Match Strategically: Choose protein-rich mains and nutrient-dense snacks to maximize value.
- Consider Portion Sizes: Some seemingly expensive options offer better value due to larger portions.
Best Overall Value
- Tesco (with Clubcard): Best overall combination of price, variety, and quality
- Boots (with Advantage Card): Excellent value with good vegan variety
- Sainsbury’s (with Nectar): Strong option for fresh, innovative choices
The UK’s vegan meal deal landscape continues to improve, with major retailers expanding their plant-based options. Tesco currently leads in terms of value and variety, while M&S offers premium options for those willing to spend more. Always use store loyalty cards to maximize savings, and focus on protein-rich options for the best value. Remember that availability can vary significantly by location and time of day, so it’s worth checking multiple stores in your area to find the best options.
