SAINSBURY’S has swapped traditional plastic tray packaging for a new vacuum-packed alternative across its beef mince range in what it says is a UK supermarket first.
The retailer said that the new packaging will result in a minimum 55% reduction in plastic per product. Furthermore, the packaging will contain the same amount of beef mince but is smaller in size.
The move comes amid a string of changes made by the supermarket as it looks to halve its use of own-brand plastic packaging by 2025. It has already removed plastic bags for fruit, vegetables, and bakery items, as well as black plastic from chilled ready meals.
Claire Hughes, director of product and innovation at Sainsbury’s, said, “We know how environmentally conscious our customers are and we’re constantly looking for new ways to innovate to achieve our goals. We strive to be bold in the changes we are making, which is why we’re pleased to be the first UK retailer to vacuum pack all our beef mince range.
“We know it’s important that we offer customers the same great value and quality products whilst also doing everything we can to reduce plastic packaging. This is the latest in a long line of changes we have pioneered in the space, and customers can expect much more to come from Sainsbury’s.”
