ASDA has introduced plant-based packaging to its own-brand tea bags in a move which it said will allow 550 million of products to be disposed of in kerbside food waste bins.
Made from PLA, which is a material derived from cornstarch, the packaging replaces the oil-based plastic bags which the supermarket previously used.
The new packaging is set to be rolled over the next six months across the entire Asda own-brand range – from Just Essentials to Extra Special.
Jon Wells, packaging technologist at Asda, said, “We know our customers want to do all they can to reduce their impact on the environment and we want to make that as easy as possible for them. Tea is a staple in most customer’s households so for us to make a change which can make such a difference is a big moment for us.”
Adam Herriott, sector specialist – resource management at WRAP, added, “It’s positive to hear of further moves by Asda, a founding member of The UK Plastics Pact, to make innovative moves on their products and tackle plastic waste. We must continue to go further, and ensure we bring in more changes that benefit shoppers and the environment.”
