UK Supermarkets Face Plastic Packaging Ban for Fruit and Veg

The UK government is considering new regulations that could eliminate pre-packed fruit and vegetable packaging in supermarkets. The proposed laws, slated for implementation in 2024, aim to reduce plastic waste by encouraging the sale of loose produce.

The proposed regulations would impact all major UK supermarkets, requiring them to shift from plastic-wrapped produce to selling loose fruits and vegetables. Alongside this, the laws would make it mandatory for stores to use recyclable bags for loose items.

Wrap's Initiative to Combat Food Waste

The impetus for these changes comes from Wrap, a climate action NGO, advocating for a transition towards selling 30% of loose fruits and vegetables by 2025 and increasing this figure to 50% by 2030. However, Wrap acknowledges that certain items, such as soft fruits, may still require plastic packaging to maintain quality. Catherine David, Director of Behavior Change and Business Programs at Wrap, emphasized the need to reshape the food system, stating, “Slowing down is not an option given the damage caused by food waste and its direct contribution to climate change.”

The Broader Impact of Food Waste

Wrap's broader analysis on food waste reveals alarming statistics. Approximately 10.7 million tonnes of food are wasted annually across sectors in the UK, amounting to £22 billion in economic losses and contributing to 18 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Notably, uncut fruit and vegetable packaging alone accounts for about 70,000 tonnes of "hard to recycle" plastic each year.

The proposed ban aligns with growing concerns about plastic waste globally, reflected in the increased industry focus on plastic waste management, as observed in company filings since 2016.

Political Support and International Precedent

The suggested ban has garnered support from MPs, with Sir Robert Goodwill expressing approval for reducing plastic packaging in supermarket foods. This move follows France's proactive step in August 2023, signing a decree to prohibit the sale of plastic-packaged fruits and vegetables starting from June 30, 2026.

The potential shift towards loose produce in UK supermarkets signifies a pivotal moment in the battle against plastic waste, aligning with both environmental concerns and international efforts to promote sustainable practices in the food retail sector.

Packaging-gateway.com