M&S Unveils Futuristic Salad Leaves Using 96% Less Water
- May 18
- 2 min read
Marks & Spencer has launched a new range of vertically farmed salad leaves which use up to 96 per cent less water than traditionally grown crops, as retailers continue to explore new technologies aimed at improving sustainability, shelf life and food quality.
The retailer has introduced three exclusive salad varieties into its food halls — Citrus Sorrel Baby Leaves, Spicy Baby Leaves and Baby Garlic Kale, all grown indoors using advanced robotics and controlled-environment vertical farming systems.
According to M&S, the salads are produced in highly controlled indoor environments where light, temperature and water are carefully managed year-round. Rather than being grown in soil, the crops are cultivated using specialist growing substrates which deliver nutrients and water directly to the roots.
The company said the system reduces water use by up to 96 per cent and cuts fertiliser use by around 97 per cent compared with conventional field-grown salad crops, while also eliminating the need for pesticides.
M&S added that the salad leaves are harvested and packed within 60 seconds, helping them remain fresh for up to five days longer than the average bagged salad product. The retailer believes the extended shelf life could also help reduce household food waste.
Andrew Clappen, Director of Technical for M&S Food, said: “The future of food is about finding new and innovative methods which put less pressure on the environment while delivering the best in market flavour and quality.”
The salads have been developed in partnership with vertical farming specialist Planet Farms, with the launch marking what the company described as the UK’s first own-label vertically farmed salad range.
The move forms part of M&S’s wider “Plan A for Farming” sustainability strategy, which also includes support for regenerative farming practices designed to improve soil health, biodiversity and long-term resilience across food production systems.
Comments