Brits are setting their sights on summer as warmer weather continues, but as the bank holiday rolls in, so are the nation’s barbecue truths.
New research from Sainsbury’s reveals that despite being a nation that loves grilled meats (63%) and smoky summer flavours (57%), almost a third (32%) have NEVER cooked on a barbecue themselves before.
Regardless of the fact they own a barbecue, 29% have swerved chef duties, simply because they think barbecuing is too difficult[1].
Worrying about making ‘mis-steaks’ and not impressing their guests, ‘barbecue fail’ is a fear for 27% of those who have never ignited a grill, and 21% of those who have1. So much so, that nearly three quarters (72%) of those who have never touched the tongs prefer to leave the summer pastime to someone more experienced, such as their parents or the older generation. Fobbing off the duties entirely, almost a fifth (19%) plan to celebrate the start of summer by attending a barbecue hosted and cooked by someone else.
It isn’t just the difficulty of navigating the grill that’s putting people off. The research went on to reveal that 1 in 3 Brits lack inspiration to recreate authentic barbecue flavours themselves, instead relying on other methods to create the same smoky summer savours, including using a sauce or glaze (33%), seasonings such as smoky rubs (32%) or dressings (20%).

Despite this, almost a quarter (24%) of Brits revealed that pre-marinaded products that are simple to cook on the grill and don’t compromise on flavours would entice them to try their hand at barbecuing in the traditional way. Seeking easy ways to maximise flavour, 27% of existing grill-masters also admitted that products or recipes with a fun and innovative twist on the traditional barbecue would encourage them to pick up the tongs more this summer.
The new Sainsbury’s summer range is influenced by Southern Style flavours inspired by the ultimate American barbecue, making it easier for even the most amateur grillers. Paying homage to flavours from the USA, The Taste the Difference Slow Cooked Cherry Wood Smoked Baby Back Ribs and Taste the Difference Texan King Kebab mean time precious Brits needn’t waste time perfecting their marinade. Ideal for the 30% of Brits who opt for the oven, as all the products can also be oven cooked.
Graeme Hibbs, Product Developer for the barbecue range at Sainsbury’s commented: “Barbecue season is finally here! As our research shows, the nation is looking for inspiration to kick off summer with a tasty barbecue bursting with flavour and excitement, and the long weekend offers the perfect excuse to get grilling. In fact, on the first May bank holiday, Sainsbury’s sold over 150% more of our Taste the Difference Slow Cooked Hickory Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket than predicted, showcasing just how ‘grilliant-ly’ our new range has gone down.
We’ve created a delicious range inspired by authentic American flavours, that perfectly balances sweet and smoky flavours without the fuss; Sainsbury’s has done the work, so you don’t have to. My favourite is the Taste the Difference Slow Cooked Cherry Wood Smoked Baby Back Ribs, sure to be a crowd pleaser.”
The Sainsbury’s Summer range is available to purchase in selected stores and online now.
The new Sainsbury’s Barbecue range includes:
- TtD Slow Cooked Hickory Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket 1.88kg – £20
- TtD Melt in the Middle Beef Burgers 340g – £3
- TtD Slow Cooked Cherry Wood Smoked Baby Back Ribs, 1.18kg – £14
- TtD Amarillo Chilli & Lime Butterfly Chicken Breast, 535kg – £5.50
- TtD Texan King Kebab, 700g – £6.50
- TtD Ultimate BBQ Slaw, 200g – £1.75
- TtD BBQ Loaded Crispy Potato Pops, 325g – £3.50
- TtD Boston style BBQ Beans with Bacon, 300g – £3.50
- TtD Feta & Honey Filo Straws, 130g – £3.50
- by Sainsbury’s Korean Style Veggie Burgers, 227g – £2.50
- by Sainsbury’s Spicy Mango Chutney Falafels, 200g – £2.30
- by Sainsbury’s Shawarma Spiced Kebabs, 264g – £3.00
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