UK – Fresh Direct, in collaboration with Westfalia Fruit, its avocado supply partner, has introduced new, plastic-free packaging for its best-selling avocado twin-pack.
This initiative marks the first time the paper-based pack has been utilized in the foodservice industry.
The packaging, crafted from actively managed, FSC-approved sources, ensures forests are regenerated as trees are replanted, making it fully recyclable.
The co-branded twin packs are designed to wrap around the avocados, providing an additional layer of protection to maintain product quality upon delivery.
Paul Nieduszynski, CEO of Sysco GB, Fresh Direct’s parent company, emphasized the significance of this change.
“This is another step in our journey to reduce our environmental impact and builds on other recent successes such as the removal of 50 tonnes of plastic from our berries packaging, helping us to continue to lead the foodservice sector,” he stated.
Nieduszynski highlighted the importance of seemingly small changes in achieving broader environmental goals.
“While the major initiatives like our electric vehicles or solar installations may grab the headlines, it’s the work like this that our teams are doing day in and day out that’s also making a real difference,” he explained.
He added that every incremental change with their suppliers contributes to the goal of becoming a more sustainable organization.
Fresh Direct’s shift to plastic-free packaging for avocados is part of a larger strategy to enhance sustainability in its operations.
This change not only supports environmental conservation but also responds to increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
The introduction of the new packaging has been met with positive responses from consumers and industry stakeholders.
The shift towards sustainable packaging reflects a growing trend in the foodservice industry to adopt more environmentally responsible practices.
As Fresh Direct continues to implement innovative solutions, the company aims to set a precedent for other foodservice providers.
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