Aldi UK introduces new packaging for chicken products and reduces plastic waste

UK – Aldi UK is set to launch new packaging for its fresh chicken products on 30 October, emphasizing its commitment to higher animal welfare standards.

This move is part of the supermarket chain’s ongoing efforts to enhance the living conditions of chickens, alongside a broader push towards sustainability.

In July, Aldi introduced new stocking density requirements for its fresh chicken suppliers, increasing space by 20% above the industry standard.

This change allows chickens to engage in more natural behaviors such as wing stretching, roaming, and dust bathing, improving their quality of life. The fresh chicken, sourced exclusively from British farms, now adheres to these updated welfare standards.

Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, highlighted the company’s dedication to ethical practices, “Animal welfare is paramount to us, and we’ve been working closely with our suppliers to reduce stocking density, helping improve conditions for chickens.

“As one of the UK’s largest chicken providers, we’re proud to offer higher-welfare chicken to our customers at unbeatable Aldi value starting next week.”

This initiative follows Aldi’s achievement of selling 100% cage-free eggs well ahead of its target date, further reflecting the company’s broader ethical commitment.

Reducing plastic in savory goods

Aldi also makes strides in reducing plastic waste by eliminating plastic windows and trays from several of its savory goods lines.

Beginning 27 November 2024, products such as Specially Selected pies and quiches and Crestwood frittatas will be packaged in cardboard, replacing plastic windows.

Crestwood twin slices and pork pies will no longer include plastic trays, and Aldi’s seasonal Mini Pork Pie Selection will be trayless during the festive season.

These changes are expected to remove 127 tonnes of plastic from Aldi’s packaging annually. Aldi’s Director of Plastics and Packaging, Luke Emery commented, “We are constantly reviewing ways to become a more sustainable supermarket, and reducing unnecessary plastic packaging is another example of our progress.

“We know our customers care about our environmental commitments, and we hope these changes make their daily shopping more sustainable.”

Aldi’s efforts to minimize its environmental impact build on previous initiatives, including a trial in August to eliminate pulp trays and punnets for its fruit and vegetable ranges.

If rolled out nationwide, this could further reduce around 370 tonnes of packaging each year.

These steps demonstrate Aldi’s continued focus on sustainability, animal welfare, and reducing its overall plastic footprint.

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