Tesco has thrown its support behind the government’s push to impose a ban on plastic packaging for fruits and vegetables, emphasizing the need for a “level playing field” in the industry. The proposal, already in effect in countries like France and Spain, is part of the government’s strategy to combat the escalating plastic crisis, as recommended by Wrap, the government’s environmental advisers.
Wrap has called on the government to introduce new regulations, cautioning that the Plastic Pact might struggle to meet its target of having 30% of fruits and vegetables sold without packaging by 2025. This target has already been revised down from the initial ambitious goal of 80%.
A spokesperson for Tesco informed The Grocer that the supermarket is in favor of “effective government intervention on produce packaging removal.” The spokesperson suggested starting with products that are deemed more achievable, especially those where multiple retailers share the same supplier. According to Tesco, government intervention is crucial to drive widespread change and establish a fair competitive landscape, preventing packaging alterations from placing any retailer at a disadvantage.
This announcement from Tesco marks the supermarket giant as the first to openly advocate for these new plastic restrictions among UK retailers. While other major supermarkets in the UK have not publicly addressed the calls for restrictions, critics express concerns about potential drawbacks, including the risk of product damage, such as bruising and increased susceptibility to pests, potentially leading to increased food waste. In supporting the ban, Tesco underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability.
