Tesco has launched a potentially game-changing upgrade to the £3 meal deal. The supermarket giant has seized on what it describes as “emerging food trends” - that means more vegetarian options, lots of avocado and, of course, 'artisanal' sourdough bread.

Those with a gluten or lactose intolerance are also catered for - at least in the snack department - with the inclusion of a 'Free From' chocolate brownie.

Traditionalists need not fear, however. Classics such as the chicken club sandwich and the plain old cheese and tomato sub are still available.

​A spokesperson for Tesco said: “We have introduced a range of new products to offer customers more choice within our £3 meal deal. Our innovation has been focused on emerging food trends such as the growth of vegetarian, the rise of avocado and artisan breads such as sourdough.

“Our hero product is the chicken, bacon and avocado sandwich which has received great feedback from customers.”

The news is the latest thunderbolt to strike the usually unremarkable lunchtime meal deal sector.

It comes just two weeks after Marks and Spencer rocked office workers across the UK with the launch of its £3.50 sandwich, snack and drink combo.

True to form, the upmarket retailer’s offering included such middle-class sandwich fillers as poached salmon and watercress and chicken, avocado and rocket.

For those thinking of making a trip to Tesco this lunchtime, here’s the new and improved meal deal menu for your perusal:

Main course

The Chicken Club Sandwich

The Triple Sandwich

Tuna Crunch Sub

Cheese & Tomato Sub

Onion Bhaji Sub

Spicy Bean Wrap

Tuna Salad (Sourdough Wrap)

Philli Cheese Steak Wrap

Coronation Chicken

Chicken, Avocado & Bacon

Falafel & Beetroot

The Veggie Deli

Goats Cheese & Chilli Chutney

Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese Bagel

Side dishes

Free From Chocolate Brownie Bar

Tesco Caramel Cake Fingers 28G

Carrot Cake Bar 61g x 6

Tesco Millionaire Shortbread 69g

Tesco Salted Caramel Tart 80g

Tesco Nuts Fruit & Dark Chocolate 40g