A report published by a group of scientists from Queen Mary University has found that some snacks purchased with a meal deal contribute to a third of an adult's maximum daily recommended salt intake.
The group named 'Action on Salt' analysed the contents of 360 products included as snacks in supermarket meal deals and the results were shocking. Concluding that 70% of them contain 'dangerously high' levels of saturated fat, salt and sugar. The worst culprits being crisps, biscuits and cakes.
Authors of the study explained that three in 10 products studied were found to contain high levels of salt, with the worst-offending snacks for salt intake including Cornish pasties, sausage rolls, Mini Cheddar crackers, and chicken bites.
The study also found that in each of the eight high street supermarkets and food chains analysed, the chicken sandwich or wrap being sold as part of its meal deal combo had "higher salt levels than a McDonald’s Big Mac and fries".
The report stated that chicken and bacon sandwiches were often the saltiest meal deal product from each supermarket, with the Asda Chicken and Bacon Caesar Triple, and the Tesco Chicken Club Sandwich both containing two grams of salt, and the chicken and bacon sandwichs from Boots, Co-op, and Sainsbury’s all contained between 1.74 grams and 1.93 grams of salt as well.
Out of all the high street supermarkets analysed, according to Action on Salt, Sainsbury’s ranked most favourably with a "greater overall compliance to the salt reduction targets".
Salt is known to raise blood pressure and can contribute towards strokes and heart attacks.
Action on Salt described the findings as "concerning" given the fact that one in three Brits apparently purchase a meal deal at least twice a week, and is calling for stronger measures to be put in place to improve the nutritional quality of food.
This includes enforcing the salt reduction targets, and for only the snacks known as healthier to be included in all meal deals.
Nutritionists analysed the contents of 360 individual products listed as snacks in supermarket meal deals / Credit: ASDA
Speaking more on the findings of the report, Sheena Bhageerutty - Nutritionist at Action on Salt - said: "Without doubt, meal deals are hugely popular especially amongst the nation’s workforce looking for a convenient and ‘value for money’ lunch, yet unbeknown to many consumers, these meal combos and snacks are often exceedingly high in salt, which means an adult can consume their maximum daily recommended salt intake in just one meal without even knowing it.
"Rather than trying to ‘upsell’ us on salt, saturated fat and sugar, CEOs of food retailers must act more responsibly by setting strict internal standards including only healthier snack options as part of the ‘deal’."
Leeds restaurant The Cut & Craft has announced further expansion plans for the spring.
Swanky all-day dining restaurant and bar, The Cut & Craft, is expanding its popular Leeds site, investing a whopping £1.2 million to create a new adjoining elegant bar, lounge and private spaces.
Located within the former historic Collinson’s Cafe, the renovation will transform the former neighbouring Paul Smith store, to extend the existing brand offering.
The extension will celebrate the original beauty of the space, whilst acknowledging the legacy of Wallace Hartley - a talented musician who played at Collinson’s Cafe in the early 1900s before his role as bandleader on Titanic during its maiden voyage.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Grade II-listed building’s features including its iconic glass dome, stained glass and circular central bar will remain, with the addition of two beautifully designed private dining rooms.
The extension is due for competition this spring and will transform the existing venue into a space with seating for an impressive 370 covers.
Oscar Akgul, CEO at The Cut & Craft said: “Planning for this new chapter began within the first year of opening. By year two, it was clear that we required additional space to serve the city’s appetite for The Cut & Craft’s signature hospitality.
Image: Supplied
“The brand’s deep affinity with the Victoria Quarter and the heritage of the building played an essential role in the decision to grow here.
“We want to thank our regular guests and everyone who has joined us at The Cut & Craft Leeds since opening and we look forward to entering this exciting new chapter with you all.”
This iconic Leeds pub is selling 25p pints for the weekend alongside a 70’s-inspired menu
Clementine Hall
Whitelock's Ale House in Leeds are turning back the clocks for four days only.
Ever fancied giving time travel a go? Well now's your chance, as a historic Leeds pub are looking back to time gone by for the weekend.
Whitelock's Ale House are collaborating with Double Diamond beer, an iconic British pale ale made popular in the 70's and now somewhat having a resurgence.
From this Thursday 26 February until Sunday 1 March 2026, pints of Double Diamond will be available for just 25p.
Yep, you can't even get a Freddo for 25p these days let alone a cold, refreshing pint.
Guests will be able to grab their first pint of Double Diamond for 25p along with a nostalgic specials menu from the Whitelock's kitchen.
And if you know anything about their food, it's always class so this specials menu will be absolutely no exception.
The specials menu includes a french onion quiche, a coronation chicken sandwich, gammon, pineapple, egg and chips and to top it all off, a raspberry Swiss roll with custard.
You can get three courses for just £30 and you can either pre-order or order individually when you're there.
This is set to be a real blast from the past, so rally your mates together and prepare for a trip down memory lane and for what could be the cheapest pint of your life.
You can find out more and book your table at Whitelock's Ale House here.
Clementine Hall -
16th March 2022 
