LONDON, U.K. - Can reducing packaging make a real difference in sustainability? Aldi is testing the removal of pulp trays and punnets from its fruit and vegetable packaging, aiming to cut down on plastic waste. The initiative could lead to significant environmental benefits if adopted widely.

“At Aldi, we are constantly reviewing ways to reduce excess plastic and packaging, and these trials on a range of our fruit and vegetables are the next steps in helping us achieve our goals,” said Luke Emery, Plastics and Packaging Director. “Becoming a more sustainable supermarket is important to not only us, but our customers too, and further reducing packaging is just one of many changes to come.”

The changes include eliminating plastic punnets from Nature’s Pick Cherry Tomatoes and removing pulp trays from Nature’s Pick Mango and Avocado twin packs. According to a press release, if these adjustments are implemented across all stores, Aldi could eliminate over 370 tonnes of plastic and packaging annually.

These efforts are part of Aldi’s broader strategy to minimize environmental impact and explore alternative packaging solutions. Last month, the retailer also began testing the removal of plastic packaging from bananas in select stores across Yorkshire, the South West, the South East, and the Midlands. This move could potentially reduce plastic waste by an additional 234 tonnes per year if rolled out nationally.

By addressing packaging waste, Aldi is setting an example in the retail industry, demonstrating how incremental changes can lead to significant environmental improvements.

Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for more news regarding the impacts of sustainable produce.