Vadasz spices up chilled pickles with new Smacked Cucumbers

Vadasz, the top chilled pickle and kimchi brand in the UK, is introducing Smacked Cucumbers, a new, spicy take on classic pickles.

The introduction capitalises on the expanding popularity of pickled foods on menus throughout the world and the growing desire of consumers for these strong, tart flavours at home (The Food People).

Vadasz’s fresh, cold-brined Smacked Cucumbers have also been designed for health-conscious consumers looking for a fresh alternative to traditional ambient pickles, which are often sweeter and higher in sugar.

Vadasz Smacked Cucumbers (400g, £4.50 RRP) will be available nationwide in Ocado from 11th September, 2025.

Inspired by the traditional Japanese and Chinese “smashed cucumber” dishes and reimagined with a signature Vadasz twist, Smacked Cucumbers are cold brined to lock in freshness and enhance their irresistible crunch. Crafted from 100% natural ingredients, the recipe balances spicy chilli and punchy garlic with sweet, crunchy cucumber creating an irresistible combination that’s naturally vegan and rich in gut-friendly live cultures.

Vadasz Smacked Cucumbers can be enjoyed straight from the tub as a snack, served as a flavourful vegetable-based side, or used to elevate a variety of dishes, including salads, noodles and wraps.

The condiment has already proven successful on the menu at in a number of leading restaurants, which has prompted its launch into retail.

Yvonne Adam, chief marketing officer at The Compleat Food Group, home of Vadasz, noted Vadasz’s pride in leading the chilled pickles and kimchi category with “bold, fresh innovation”, and Smacked Cucumbers are a perfect example of that.

“This first-to-market in Grocery Retail brings together global inspiration, vibrant ingredients, and modern health cues in a way that really resonates with today’s consumers,” Adam added. “Cold-brined for maximum crunch and crafted with 100% natural ingredients, it’s a fresh spin on traditional pickles, and one we know shoppers will love.”

Smacked Cucumbers is the latest addition to an exciting NPD pipeline from Vadasz, following the launch of its Hot & Chunky Kimchi earlier this year, a bold, fiery take on the brand’s best-selling classic.

For additional inspiration and recipe ideas, Vadasz founder Nick Vadasz recently launched his debut cookbook, The Pickle Jar. The book offers endless creative ways to incorporate fermented foods into your meals, enhancing flavour and supporting gut health. The Pickle Jar is available nationwide via Hamlyn.