WRAP urges UK government to ban packaging for fresh produce

UK – Waste and resources charity WRAP has called on the UK government to introduce restrictions on how uncut fresh fruit and vegetables are sold, aiming to tackle food waste and reduce packaging.

WRAP, a UK-based charity dedicated to promoting a circular economy through waste reduction and sustainable resource use, has proposed eliminating packaging for 21 key produce items, including apples, bananas, and potatoes.

By encouraging the sale of more loose produce, the initiative could save an estimated 100,000 tonnes of edible food from being wasted each year.

The proposed ban would apply to uncut fruit and vegetables sold in quantities under 1.5kg. WRAP argues that current packaging practices often lead to households buying more than they need, resulting in significant food waste.

By removing packaging, the organization estimates that it could prevent the equivalent of eight million shopping baskets’ worth of food from going to waste annually and reduce the use of 13,000 tonnes of single-use film.

The recommendation covers all packaging materials, including plastic, for a wide range of produce, such as avocados, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and lemons.

Phased implementation and policy development

WRAP proposes a phased approach to implementing the packaging ban, beginning with voluntary measures until 2027 and followed by a three-year adjustment period for businesses before the ban takes full effect.

The plan, developed in collaboration with the think tank Policy Connect, includes exemptions for certain organic and fairtrade products and seasonal occasions like Christmas, when bulk buying is common.

The initiative’s second phase would extend to more perishable items such as berries, soft fruits, and herbs. WRAP has recommended that the government conduct a formal consultation and economic impact assessment to evaluate how the ban would affect businesses across the supply chain.

Environmental and economic impacts

Food waste is a pressing global issue, with up to 40% of food produced worldwide being discarded before it can be consumed.

In the UK alone, approximately 1.7 million tonnes of edible fruit and vegetables are wasted each year, costing approximately £4 billion (US$5.19bn).

WRAP’s previous campaigns have highlighted consumer demand for more loose produce options, with many shoppers citing the lack of availability in stores as a barrier to reducing food waste.

Rob Percival, Head of Food and Health Policy at The Soil Association, acknowledged the complexities of removing packaging from fresh produce but supported WRAP’s call for action, noting that it aligns with consumer preferences and is backed by substantial evidence.

As WRAP continues to advocate for policy changes, the next steps involve further consultation and economic assessments to better understand the proposed packaging ban’s broader impacts on businesses and the environment.

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