Despite the prevailing use of single-use plastic in the sale of fresh produce, accounting for one-third of the country's total, the law aims to markedly bring down its usage, encompassing plastic film and netting
France to phase out single-use plastic in fresh food packaging. (Credit: Todd from Pixabay)
France is set to enforce a prohibition on plastic packaging for fresh fruits and vegetables, commencing on 1 January 2024, marking a significant stride in the country’s initiative to phase out single-use plastic.
As the global community ushers in the new year, retailers and producers of fruits and vegetables in France are preparing for the impact of a law that prohibits the use of single-use plastic. With a broader objective to achieve complete freedom from single-use plastic by 2040, this law is said to represent a crucial step in that direction.
Despite the prevalent use of single-use plastic in the sale of fresh produce, accounting for one-third of the country’s total, the law aims to markedly reduce its usage, encompassing plastic film and netting. Public support is evident for measures taken to minimise or eradicate single-use plastic.
However, concerns have been voiced by fresh food producers regarding the profound implications of this stringent measure.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Producers’ Association president Laurent Gardin, has been quoted by France24, as saying: “We don’t have a miracle product which is affordable and can be put to immediate use instead of plastic. Either the material isn’t totally transparent, or it breaks easily or isn’t moisture-proof.”
Contrary to being an across-the-board prohibition, the government has permitted the sale of some products in single-use plastic. Currently, 29 food items, including early-harvest potatoes, broccoli, carrots, salads, mushrooms, berries, and certain delicate fresh products, are exempt from the ban.
Furthermore, items considered fragile are also granted an exemption from this rule.