Certain shoppers will be able to get the food item at stores for the next several weeks
The free fruit for kids scheme is returning to stores for the six weeks holiday (stock image)(Image: Getty)
Tesco has launched several key initiatives to support families during the 2026 summer school holidays. Central to these efforts is the return of the “Free Fruit for Kids” scheme, running from July 20 to August 30.
During this period, children visiting over 800 large stores and 77 Express locations can pick up a free apple at the checkouts or via selected Click and Collect points. Tesco shared the news with followers on Instagram this week, with people praising the supermarket for its initiative. In the comments section, one person wrote: “Amazing! And love that this is in selected express stores too”.
Originally launched in 2016, the program aims to provide healthy snacking alternatives and forms part of Tesco’s broader goal to give one million children access to free produce by 2029. Apples are very nutritious as they are loaded with nutrients, have soluble fibre (pectin) that promotes gut health, and are rich in antioxidants (polyphenols) that can help lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
In addition to free fruit, the “Kids Eat Free” offer is available in 317 Tesco cafés across the UK. With any adult purchase starting from 60p and a valid Clubcard, parents can claim a free Kids Hot Meal, Breakfast, or Pick ‘n’ Mix deal. For the first time, this popular offer has been expanded to include weekends throughout the summer break.
To assist those facing food insecurity, Tesco is also facilitating community donations through pre-filled food bags. Available until August 30 in England and Wales, these bags cost between £2 and £4 and contain essential, nutritious long-life items.
All donations are distributed via the Trussell Trust and the Felix Project to local food banks. Tesco says donations will directly support the increasing number of families requiring emergency food parcels during the summer months.
Matthew van Duyvenbode, co-chief executive officer at Trussell, said: “Our community of food banks distributed more than 900,000 parcels for children last year, demonstrating the unacceptable levels of hunger and hardship so many families are currently facing. This isn’t right. That’s why the support of our partner Tesco is so crucial, providing in-store summer pick-up bags, making it much easier for people to support their local food bank throughout the school holidays.
“No-one should need to turn to a charity for something as essential as food, and as we work towards achieving the long-term change needed, Tesco’s and the public’s support will make a real difference to families across the UK during this school holiday. We are so grateful to Tesco and to everyone who donates food this summer.”
Charlotte Hill, CEO at Felix said: “We know from speaking to charities receiving food via our network that demand for food support is growing as people across the UK face cost-of-living pressures. During the school holidays, families will be facing additional financial burdens as they juggle the cost of childcare and food. Many will be turning to their local community and charities for support.
“That’s why the donation bags in Tesco stores are vital. The food donated will be shared with charities and community groups that can offer not just meals, but spaces and activities for children to play and make friends during the summer holidays, relieving the pressure on parents.
“Any Tesco shoppers that can donate an item or two to Felix will be making a valuable contribution to helping to support children and their families across the UK this summer. Together we can make a real difference, thank you Tesco.”
