M&S praised for ‘bold move’ after making big changes

Marks and Spencer has been hailed by health-conscious consumers for its “bold” new approach to food packaging, with the high street giant earning plaudits on TikTok for its ingredient transparency.

The retailer’s decision to clearly display all ingredients on the front of its own-brand products has been showcased in a post by TikTok brand and marketing account, The Drum, which stated: “Bold move from M&S Food. They’ve just released ingredients-led packaging. Food brands are often criticised for using hidden and harmful ingredients, so highlighting the simplicity of their ingredients is massive.”

The post detailed examples such as Corn Flakes, which now boast packaging that proudly lists 325g of corn as the only ingredient. Choco Hoops followed suit, with a clear breakdown of its contents including oat flour, corn flour, brown rice flour, date syrup, cocoa powder, and salt.

Whilst a similar product, Multi-Grain Hoops, was also featured, showing off its simple composition minus the cocoa powder.

The initiative quickly garnered support from TikTok users, with one enthusiastic commenter writing: “M&S are smashing going ultra processed free. It’s how we should be eating! No additives, low processed foods!”

Another praised the move, saying: “Fair play. Hopefully others follow and get more products have minimal ingredients.”

A third person chimed in with support: “Ethical consumerism – love it. Well done M&S, now can all these big companies give back to all communities that have supported their existence?”

Meanwhile, a fourth pointed out: “This is an excellent marketing scheme. Just because the ingredients are there in bold letters doesn’t mean they are healthy. Definitely not as bad for you as the other brands.”

Conversely, however, a sceptic argued that supermarkets still have a long way to go: “It’s a good start but it doesn’t show where the ingredients are sourced, what fertilisers, pesticides and preservatives have been used to get it to this point,” they said. “Organic and grass fed whole foods is best.”

Speaking about its packaging update on its website, an M&S spokesperson said: “Packaging is an integral part of our Foods, Clothing, Home and Beauty product offer and key to the delivery of safe and consistent quality products to our customers.

“The packaging format, design and material will be critical to the performance, sustainability and customer perception of the product.”