Sainsbury’s introduces plastic-free avocado packaging

UK – Sainsbury’s has taken another step towards sustainability by trialing paper-based packaging for its own-brand Ripe & Ready Avocados twin pack.

The initiative, currently running in 77 stores across the UK, is expected to eliminate 20.2 million pieces of plastic annually once fully implemented.

Following the trial, a broader rollout is planned for in-store and online shoppers later this year.

The new packaging combines paper and bamboo netting, offering a fully recyclable solution that customers can dispose of through kerbside recycling bins.

This move aligns with Sainsbury’s ongoing efforts to develop innovative, eco-friendly packaging alternatives.

Sainsbury’s has been implementing several initiatives to reduce its plastic footprint. Last year, the retailer transitioned from plastic to cardboard punnets for its Taste the Difference berries and cherries, saving over 160 tonnes of plastic annually.

Similarly, switching to cardboard mushroom punnets is projected to save approximately 775 tonnes of plastic annually.

In another significant step, Sainsbury’s replaced plastic packaging for its kitchen and toilet rolls with paper alternatives, cutting plastic use by over 485 tonnes annually.

These efforts are part of the company’s commitment to halve its own-brand packaging by 2025.

Sainsbury’s has introduced a ‘Good to Know’ logo to further engage customers. This initiative helps shoppers identify products with improved packaging, such as reduced plastic content while raising awareness about sustainability, animal welfare, and community support.

Claire Hughes, Sainsbury’s Product and Innovation Director, emphasized the company’s dedication to sustainable practices, stating, “Switching to paper packaging for our Ripe & Ready Avocados twin pack is just one of many steps towards a greener future.

“We’re excited for our customers to try the new packaging and join us in supporting sustainability.”

Earlier in 2023, Sainsbury’s removed single-use plastic trays from its ‘by Sainsbury’s’ whole chicken range, replacing them with trayless packaging that uses at least 50% less plastic.

This change is expected to save 140 tonnes of plastic annually. The recyclable film used in this packaging can be returned to Sainsbury’s front-of-store flexible plastic recycling points.

The retailer is also prioritizing improvements in chicken welfare standards across its supply chains, reinforcing its commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.

With these measures, Sainsbury’s continues to lead in sustainable innovation, working towards a greener future while engaging customers in its journey to reduce environmental impact.

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