The donations from the Winter Food Collection, held between November 24 and 29, were made at Tesco stores across Glasgow and will support those in need through the Trussell Trust and FareShare.
The contributions formed part of a nationwide effort in which Tesco customers donated enough long-life food for 1.48 million meals to help people facing hardship.
Ashwin Prasad, chief executive of Tesco UK, said: “As ever, we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of Tesco customers who have shown how much they value the hard work of our partners Trussell and FareShare in their local communities.
“I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated and made this such a special event in stores across the UK.
“Every single item donated really helps to make a huge impact in communities across the UK supported by Trussell and FareShare.”
More than 2,000 volunteers supported the campaign, working alongside Tesco staff in stores.
In addition to food donations, customers raised more than £300,000 for the charities by rounding up their bills at the till and making online contributions.
With Tesco’s own financial support, the total value of donations and funding is expected to exceed £2 million in 2025.
According to the Trussell Trust, more than 14 million people in the UK are now experiencing hunger, including 3.8 million children.
The charity estimates its network of food banks will need to distribute an emergency food parcel every 10 seconds this winter.
FareShare, which redirects surplus food to frontline charities, also reports sustained high demand.
More than a third of its partner organisations now primarily serve families with children or child-focused services.
Research by the Felix Project, a FareShare partner, found that nearly a quarter of working parents in the UK have used a food support service in the past year.
Donations to the Trussell Trust support the delivery of emergency food parcels to people who cannot afford the basics, while contributions to FareShare help supply thousands of community charities.
The charities expect even greater demand over the winter, with the Christmas period posing extra challenges for families due to rising costs.
Kris Gibbon-Walsh, chief executive of FareShare, said: “Once again, the generosity of Tesco customers at the Winter Food Collection has been humbling.
“The long-life items collected will go to 8,000 charities across the UK, helping to support people during the winter months.
“At a time when many people are forced to choose between keeping warm and eating, demand for these local charities’ services is higher than ever.
“The food that we can provide thanks to the Winter Food Collection makes a real difference, helping to bring people together, strengthen communities and support those in need.
“Thank you to every single person that donated an item of food, topped up their shopping bill or generously gave their time to volunteer in store.
“Your support will help provide a meal for someone facing hardship this winter, enable them to connect with other vital services, and make a positive difference.
“Thank you.”
Matthew van Duyvenbode, co-chief executive of Trussell, added: “We are so grateful to Tesco for supporting our community of food banks through the coldest season by organising the annual Winter Food Collection.
“Crucially, it’s thanks to you – Tesco customers – who donate food and money so generously.
“By doing this, you’re ensuring food banks can continue to help people in your local community who are facing hunger and hardship.
“Thank you for your kindness.
“When we all play our part, we can end hunger for good.”
Tesco customers can continue to donate at permanent collection points in stores or online until the end of February.
More information on how to support can be found at Tesco’s FareShare site.
