Tesco cafes are offering one free Kids Hot Meal Deal, Kids Breakfast or Kids Pick ‘n’ Mix deal with each item bought by an adult when showing their Clubcard at the till.

Popular kids menu items include beans or avocado on toast, fish fingers, baked chicken goujons or a sandwich. Main meals include a vegetable side dish and sandwich, while pick ‘n’ mix includes a piece of fresh fruit.

Research from food charity The Food Foundation shows that 4 million children in households are affected by food insecurity, the highest level they’ve tracked since the start of the pandemic. The research also shows that households with children are more likely to experience food insecurity than households without children (25.8% versus 16%).

Jason Tarry, Tesco UK CEO, said: “We are pleased to bring back our Kids Eat Free initiative in Tesco Cafés, offering a little extra support over the Christmas holidays. We want to help parents and carers to provide children with nutritious food – saving them some money at a time when budgets are tighter than ever. Children can get a balanced meal and hopefully get into the Christmas spirit too.”

Anna Taylor, executive director of the Food Foundation said: “It’s great to see Tesco supporting families in this way, particularly at such an important time of year. We know that the cost-of-living crisis has put increased pressure on vulnerable households, so the ability for parents and carers to get a free meal in so many communities across the country is very welcome. Hunger doesn’t take a holiday, so it’s vital that both the government and businesses act to support families as we head into what will be a very challenging Winter for many,”