Lidl expands vegan range and reduces salt content

Lidl has improved its range of meat alternatives. The taste, texture, and nutritional values have been optimised, with over two-thirds now meeting the Dutch nutrition guidelines of the Schijf van Vijf. The packaging has also been updated, using less material. With these changes, the supermarket aims to encourage customers to choose plant-based options more often.

From seven to 21 Schijf van Vijf-approved products

The most notable improvement is the reduced salt content. In the vegan meatballs and vegan minced meat, salt has been cut by more than 30%. As a result, the number of meat alternatives meeting the Schijf van Vijf criteria has grown from seven to 21. The fully plant-based options have also increased, from 15 to 24. The vegetarian burger and mushroom burger are now fully vegan. Additionally, Lidl has added six new meat alternatives to its range.

Gijs Regtuit, Buyer at Lidl Netherlands, reflects on the development process: “We set out with a clear goal—to offer the best range of meat alternatives in the Netherlands. The biggest challenge was finding the right texture, taste, and bite. We spent over a year perfecting each recipe, working closely with several suppliers who developed unique products specifically for Lidl. I’m incredibly proud of the result and can’t wait to see how our customers will respond!”

A more sustainable and healthier range

These changes contribute to Lidl’s ambition to make 60% of its protein sales plant-based by 2030 and to have at least 38% of its sales meet the Schijf van Vijf guidelines by 2025.

Chantal Goenee, Sustainability and Health Specialist at Lidl Netherlands, explains: “By offering more plant-based alternatives and improving their taste and nutritional value, we make it easier for our customers to make informed choices.”

Lidl.nl