Tesco hails arrival of laser-etched avocados as it makes plastic-saving move | Retail Bulletin

FOOD AND DRINK NEWS UK

Tesco is trialling the replacement of barcode stickers with laser etching on its extra large avocados.

The supermarket is also testing the replacement of plastic tray packaging on two of its most popular avocado lines with a cardboard container that is easier to recycle.

Tesco avocado buyer Lisa Gilbey said:  “We’re always looking for innovative ways to reduce the environmental impact of our products, and cut down on plastic waste in the home through changes to our packaging.

“We’re really excited to hear customer feedback on our new laser-etched avocados, avoiding the need for a barcode sticker that can easily be forgotten and left on when recycling through household food waste.”

The trials are being implemented in collaboration with the UK’s main avocado supplier, Westfalia Fruit, which is the company behind the new laser-etching technology. The supermarket said the Lincolnshire based firm has conducted extensive trials to ensure the quality, shelf life and taste of the fruit is not affected.

Tesco sells nearly 70 million avocados a year and has seen demand for the fruit grow by 15% in the last year.

The trials will take place in around 270 Tesco stores in south-east England and if feedback from customers is positive, will be rolled out across the Tesco estate.