The firm has re-launched its food-to-go range by reducing the packaging and replacing all single-use plastic cutlery with wooden sporks

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Co-op re-launches food-to-go range by adding new products and reducing the use of packaging. (Credit: Co-operative Group Limited.)

UK-based consumer co-operative Co-op has re-launched its food-to-go range by adding new products and reducing the use of packaging.

The firm has updated its food-to-go range by reducing the packaging and replacing all single-use plastic cutlery with wooden sporks.

The organisation is decreasing the amount of packaging on its food-to-go goods in order to make the range as sustainable as possible.

Co-op said that approximately 274 tonnes of unneeded plastic, cardboard, and film will be removed from its stores by lowering packaging and replacing all single-use plastic silverware with wooden sporks.

The new range has eight new vegan and vegetarian goods, resulting in reduced meat content.

The main focus of the new food-to-go collection is Sushi, in which the Salmon and Prawn pack, the Vegan sample pack, the Premium Fish Selection, and the Chicken and Duck Pack are among the new offerings.

Other new products in the range include Thai Bang Bang Noodle Salad, Chicken Katsu Bento Box, Halloumi Flatbread, Spinach and Pine Nut Falafel Wrap and the Coronation Chicken Sub Roll.

Co-op packaging manager Robert Thompson said: “We’re really pleased that we’ve managed to remove a significant amount of plastic, cardboard and film on our food-to-go products, which will reduce the amount of packaging in our stores by over 270 tonnes.

“Our teams have worked hard to deliver what is a really positive step forward for packaging, delivering the same fantastic sandwiches and salads as sustainably as possible.”

Co-op product development manager Sam Griffiths said: “We’ve added a wide range of products to our food-to-go section this summer, perfect for all types of lunches.

“Influenced by traditional rolls from Japan, we’re particularly excited about our new range of sushi.

“We’ve also seen a huge rise in demand for sushi, most likely driven by lockdown as consumers couldn’t easily make it for themselves at home.

“The new range now offers a huge variety to both our customers and members, that they are able to pick up on the go.”