Lidl is offering free £10 vouchers and nutrition advice to help students manage stress and maintain healthier eating habits during exam season.
The supermarket chain announced the initiative following new research showing that many students across Great Britain are skipping meals, relying on energy drinks, and turning to sugary snacks while preparing for exams.
Alongside the vouchers, Lidl is also sharing guidance from its in-house nutritionist to encourage healthier food choices that may support concentration, energy, and overall wellbeing during stressful periods.
Research
According to Lidl’s survey, many students aged 16 to 18 struggle to maintain regular eating habits during exams.
The research found:
| Student Habit During Exams | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Skip breakfast before exams | 43% |
| Felt hungry during an exam | 75% |
| Use energy drinks for focus | Nearly 33% |
| Eat sugary snacks for energy | 25% |
The findings suggest that stress and long study hours may be influencing students to choose quick sources of energy instead of balanced meals.
However, some students also reported negative effects from these habits.
| Reported Effect | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Energy crash after sugary snacks | 27% |
| Feeling anxious or jittery | 20% |
Nutrition experts say these short-term energy boosts may affect concentration and energy levels later in the day.
Advice
Lidl’s in-house nutritionist, Dr. Emma Williams, shared several recommendations aimed at helping students maintain steady energy and focus during exams.
She said breakfast remains one of the most important meals of the day, especially before exams.
Suggested breakfast options included:
- Fortified breakfast cereals
- Milk or dairy alternatives
- Fresh berries
- Eggs and wholegrain toast
According to Dr. Williams, foods containing iron, zinc, iodine, and B-vitamins may help support normal cognitive function and reduce tiredness.
She also encouraged students to make healthier snack choices instead of relying heavily on sugary foods.
Recommended snack options included:
- Fruit and nut mixes
- Nuts containing iron and zinc
- Foods rich in magnesium and vitamin C
Hydration
The guidance also highlighted the importance of hydration during exam periods.
Dr. Williams noted that water supports normal physical and cognitive function, while excessive caffeine intake may interfere with sleep quality.
Students were advised to:
- Drink enough water throughout the day
- Limit caffeine later in the evening
- Avoid relying heavily on energy drinks
The advice reflects growing awareness around the connection between nutrition, hydration, sleep, and academic performance.
Vouchers
As part of the campaign, Lidl GB is giving away £10 vouchers to 100 students across Great Britain.
The vouchers can be used in stores to purchase food and groceries during exam season.
To enter, members of the public must complete the application process online before midnight on Tuesday, June 23.
| Offer Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Voucher amount | £10 |
| Number available | 100 |
| Eligibility area | Great Britain |
| Entry deadline | June 23 |
Lidl said the campaign is intended to make healthier food options more accessible during a stressful time for students and families.
Support
Georgina Hall, Director of Corporate Affairs at Lidl GB, said the company understands the pressures students face during exam periods.
She said many people associate exams with unhealthy routines such as late-night caffeine and sugary snacks, but growing awareness around nutrition now offers students better ways to support their health and focus.
Hall added that Lidl wants affordable and healthier food choices to remain accessible to students during exam season.
Outlook
The campaign comes at a time when concerns about student wellbeing, stress, and nutrition continue to grow. Exam periods can place pressure on sleep, eating habits, and mental health, particularly among younger students balancing revision schedules and performance expectations.
While nutrition alone cannot remove exam stress, experts say balanced meals, proper hydration, and consistent energy levels may help students feel more prepared and focused.
Lidl’s voucher initiative combines financial support with practical nutrition advice aimed at encouraging healthier routines during one of the busiest times of the academic year.
FAQs
What is Lidl offering students?
Lidl is giving away free £10 vouchers.
How many vouchers are available?
A total of 100 student vouchers are available.
Who can apply for the vouchers?
Students across Great Britain can enter.
When is the application deadline?
Entries close at midnight on June 23.
