The new packaging is said to have 60% less plastic than the previous version, 100% recyclable via Asda’s in-store collection points and will eliminate 67.6 tonnes of plastic from Asda’s supply chain every year
UK-based Asda changes beef mince packaging. (Credit: ASDA)
British supermarket chain Asda has replaced the traditional plastic trays across its Just Essentials beef mince range with a vacuum-based lighter and recyclable flexible plastic film packaging.
The new packaging is said to have 60% less plastic than the previous version and is 100% recyclable via Asda’s in-store collection points.
Now available in stores and online, the sustainable packaging is expected to eliminate 67.6 tonnes of plastic from Asda’s supply chain every year.
The packaging’s previous generation was used from May 2022 through to January 2024.
According to Asda, the vacuum-pack method of packaging eliminates oxygen and extends the product’s shelf life.
The pack is said to be smaller in size and takes up less refrigerator space because of the new process. It also contains the same amount of beef mince as before.
Asda has ensured that the packaging is recyclable under the direction of the On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL).
The used packaging will be recyclable at 250 of Asda’s locations via front-of-store collection points.
Asda sustainable packaging manager Jon Wells said: “We’re always looking at new ways that we can make positive changes which will benefit both our customers and the planet, and we believe that this is one of those changes.”
“Not only does this improve shelf life and provide greater convenience for our customers, it also removes tonnes of non-recyclable plastic from our supply chain, reducing our carbon footprint.”
The supermarket chain has made several adjustments recently to reach its goal of using only recyclable packaging by 2025.
Asda also updated the best-before dates on around 250 fresh fruit and vegetable products and its own brand of yoghurts last year to help customers save money and avoid food wastage at home.
In June last year, the British firm announced its plans to swap the coloured caps with recyclable clear caps on all its own label fresh milk.