The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) has called for a balanced approach when it comes to phasing out plastic from the fruit and vegetable supply chain.
It says that it is important to recognise plastic’s role in prolonging shelf life but also emphasises the urgency of finding more sustainable solutions. Last year the non-profit Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) called for a government ban on primary packaging for 21 whole, uncut fresh produce items, together with an aim for half of all uncut fruit and vegetables to be sold loose by 2030.
The items initially targeted by WRAP include apples, broccoli, cabbages, carrots, onions, potatoes and salad tomatoes. The organisation claims that moving to loose sales would help to reduce food waste by 100,000 tonnes a year, as well as preventing the use of 13,000 tonnes of plastic.
However, Nigel Jenny of the FPC has previously commented, “We understand the spirit of the challenge, but appropriate packaging is used for several important reasons. Long term ambition is important, but let’s not ignore practical reality and consumer preference.”
While retailers are actively looking to increase their loose sales of many items, logistical hurdles remain and more investment is required in handling throughout the supply chain, as well as better consumer engagement.
