According to Farming UK, Noble Foods is the largest egg packer and egg products manufacturer in the UK. The company already provides millions of hard-boiled eggs to sandwich and salad manufacturers across the country.

"The idea of providing a hard boiled egg into retail stores seemed like a natural progression" comments Finn Cottle, Noble Foods Group Marketing Director.

Current egg consumption per capita in the UK is 140 shell eggs a year, which is much lower than other countries such as France at 167 and USA at 175. Noble Foods hopes the introduction of the new 'Fresh and Tasty' chilled hard-boiled eggs will help increase the number of eggs eaten both at home and on the move.

Mr Cottle concluded, "Eggs are so easily forgotten when menu planning at home: they can be seen as a 'fridge-filler' and consumers need to be reminded that they are a versatile, value-for-money alternative to other proteins.

"In offering an already boiled egg, we are providing time-poor consumers with an easy snacking solution that is perfect for packed lunches and picnics and inspiring the use of eggs in sandwiches, salads and meals without having to allow for the preparation time".

Initially the 'Fresh and Tasty' chilled hard-boiled eggs are being launched in selected Sainsbury's Convenience stores, retailing at £1.99 for a pack of four eggs. All the eggs are British Lion Quality free-range eggs.