M&S strawberries cream sandwich is 'inspired' by a part of the world you will never guess

Marks & Spencer has sparked a heated debate among shoppers with its latest "not to be missed" sandwich, featuring a rather unconventional filling.

The Strawberry and Creme sandwich, launched on Wednesday (June 25), consists of ripe strawberries and whipped cream cheese nestled between two slices of sweetened bread. According to M&S, this unique creation draws inspiration from Japanese "sweet sandos" or fruit sandwiches, which have been gaining popularity in London's trendy Japanese patisseries.

M&S explained: "Inspired by the Japanese sweet sandos, recently spotted popping up in London's trendiest Japanese patisseries, our product developers have long dreamed of creating a dessert sandwich."

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The company added: "With our exclusive Red Diamond Strawberries at their juiciest best, the time has finally come to create the ultimate strawberries and creme experience."

They envision the sandwich as a perfect treat for various summer occasions, from alfresco lunches to afternoon tea at home or a sweet pick-me-up, reports the Manchester Evening News.

However, not all shoppers share M&S's enthusiasm for this novel sandwich. On the Facebook page Bargain Lovers and Deals, Debbie Lyle expressed her reservations: "I'll pass on that. In cake maybe, but not bread."

Tanya Campbell-Gillies was more blunt, stating: "Gross. Surely it will make the bread soggy."

Um Ahmad Hussain chimed in, saying: "It looks nice but I don't think it will taste nice."

However, not everyone is convinced by the bread-based treat, with some suggesting that there are more suitable alternatives for this fruity snack.

One customer, Marguerita Bryan, suggested: "Between slices of Victoria sponge would be better, not bread!" Another shopper, Tel Rose, chimed in with: "Should have been sandwiched in between two scone like pieces in the shape of bread.But while some shoppers say they will be avoiding the fruit-filled sandwich, others say they are eager to try the limited edition item.Responding to MandS's Instagram post, blogger Vickie Neave wrote: ".

Despite some customers expressing their intention to give the fruit-filled sandwich a miss, others are keen to sample the limited edition offering.

Reacting to MandS's Instagram post, blogger Vickie Neave exclaimed: "Whaaaaattttt! ! ! ! I have not got time to be chasing around after this."

Fellow blogger Faye Gooding was more enthusiastic, writing: "Oh my, this looks incredible."

MandS has a long-standing reputation for sandwich making, having first sold freshly made sandwiches back in the 1920s before introducing pre-packed sandwiches in the 1980s. The retailer has since sold a staggering four billion sandwiches.

The limited edition Red Diamond Strawberry and Creme sandwich can be snapped up in MandS food halls for £2.80.