Tesco has been announced as the headline sponsor for National Vegetarian Week, which organisers use to campaign for people to move to a meat free diet.
The decision by the UKs leading supermarket has sparked consternation from the meat sector which looks to the retailer to sell its product.
Stephen Rossides, director of the British Meat Processors Association, said: While It is perfectly appropriate for Tesco to offer vegetarian products as part of their overall consumer offer, it seems somewhat strange that they have chosen to be a sponsor of National Vegetarian Week. It is; therefore, appropriate to remind both Tesco and the public in general of the many proven positive nutritional benefits of eating red meat as part of a balanced diet.
National Vegetarian Week, which takes place 19-25 May, is organised by the National Vegetarian Society. Lynne Elliot, chief executive, said: We are excited that Tesco have taken up the veggie challenge and become headline sponsors of National Vegetarian Week 2014. More people are moving towards a meat free diet and it’s never been easier.
John Scouler, Tesco’s commercial director said, We see it as our job to give our customers the best possible range of food whenever and however they want to shop and it’s no different for our vegetarian customers. So we are delighted to be chosen as the sponsor for this year’s Vegetarian Week 2014.
A spokesperson for Tesco added: We are British agricultures biggest customer, buying more British produce than any other retailer, so our meat-loving and vegetarian customers alike will always find a fantastic range of products on our shelves.