Marks & Spencer has expanded its Only Ingredients food range as part of a broader response to criticism around ultra-processed foods and concerns over on-pack labelling transparency.
In 2025, the retailer faced accusations that some own-brand products understated ingredient information on packaging. The Real Bread Campaign alleged that one white bread product listed four ingredients despite containing eleven, while a sunflower and spelt loaf was said to contain thirteen ingredients rather than the six declared. Further complaints centred on own-brand flour described as being made from an “ancient variety of wheat”, which was reportedly derived from a modern rye variety. The complaints were escalated to Trading Standards and the Advertising Standards Authority, prompting a review of labelling practices.
M&S stated that its packaging complies with legal requirements and that it works continuously with its primary authority to ensure labelling clarity for customers.
M&S has since doubled its Only Ingredients range, with each product displaying a stripped-back list of ingredients by weight on the front of pack. The approach places ingredient disclosure as the primary design element, shifting information typically found on the back panel to the front label.
New products added to the range include sausages, chipolatas, beef burgers and meatballs, alongside condiments such as mayonnaise and tomato ketchup, as well as porridge, yoghurt and baked beans. Kathryn Turner, director of product development at M&S, said the company had “worked hard to strip recipes right back while keeping the same familiar, comforting flavours you love”.
However, earlier versions of the range attracted criticism for inconsistencies between front- and back-of-pack ingredient listings. The Grocer also reported that removing preservatives from Only Ingredients meat products reduced shelf life, with use-by dates of three days compared with eight days for alternative products across retail categories.