The controversial move – already facing backlash on social media – is in line with current rates of inflation.

It will now cost £3.40 for Tesco Clubcard members to grab the sandwich, snack and drink deal – an increase of 40p.

For those without the trusty loyalty card, future meal deals with have a price tag of £3.90.

Shoppers have long since experimented with finding the best savings possible with a crafty meal deal selection.

Bringing a smoothie or pasta dish into the mix can easily save up to £2.

Online, people have responded the cost of living crisis has officially gone ‘too far’ as a result of Tesco’s decision to raise the cost of the deal.

One user referenced yesterday’s political chaos, writing: ‘I want a Prime Minister who will make Tesco meal deals £3 again.’

Another distraught customer added: ‘TESCO MEAL DEAL PRICES INCREASING AGAIN?????? £3.40 WITH A CLUBCARD ????? cost of living crisis is so real’.

Others lamented the cost of living crisis had officially ‘gone too far’ as a result of the price hike.

‘No, I can’t do this’, added another Twitter user.

It’s the first time the cost of the £3 meal deal has been raised in ten years.

The cost of food has experienced its largest annual rise in more than 40 years

Earlier this week, it was announced the rate of Consumer Price Index inflation had risen to 10.1% in September from 9.9% in August.

The vast increase is in part due to increases in the cost of food, which saw its largest annual rise in more than 40 years.

On their decision to raise the cost of meal deals, a Tesco spokesman said: ‘Clubcard members will pay just £3.40 for a main, snack and drink, making our meal deal an ideal way to grab a great value lunch on-the-go.

‘And with savings of up to £3 on millions of possible combinations across our stores, including the recent addition of Costa hot drinks, and our ever-popular Christmas sandwiches which join the meal deal for the festive period, we’ve got something for every taste.’

The new prices will come into play from Monday.

The supermarket’s most popular deal combo is said to be a Ham and Cheddar Sub, Diet Coca-Cola and Walkers Cheese and Onion Crisps.