Sainsbury’s has taken a pioneering step in packaging by introducing vacuum-packed lamb mince, marking a significant environmental initiative.
- The new packaging will reduce plastic usage by 65% per product, saving 26 tonnes of plastic annually.
- Vacuum packing enhances product longevity by removing oxygen, maintaining freshness in both the fridge and freezer.
- The transition promises to uphold the quality and quantity of lamb mince Sainsbury’s customers expect.
- QR codes on the packaging will offer cooking advice, aligning with customer convenience.
Sainsbury’s has announced a shift from traditional plastic tray packaging to vacuum-packed alternatives for its entire fresh lamb mince range, aiming to significantly cut plastic waste. In a bold move, the supermarket giant is set to save 26 tonnes of plastic annually, with the new packaging reducing plastic usage by 65% per product. This change reflects Sainsbury’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its response to customer demand for reduced plastic packaging.
The vacuum-packing process is designed to extend the shelf life of the product. By removing all oxygen from the packaging, the risk of spoilage is minimised, ensuring that the lamb mince retains its freshness for longer. This method not only benefits storage in standard conditions but also enhances the product’s longevity in the freezer, a critical advantage for consumers seeking practicality.
The company assures customers that despite the change in packaging method, there will be no alteration in the quality or the quantity of the lamb mince offered. Sainsbury’s remains steadfast in providing the standard its customers expect, even as it innovates with its packaging solutions.
To guide consumers, the newly packaged lamb mince will feature QR codes. These codes are intended to provide advice on cooking, adding a layer of convenience and modernity to the shopping experience. Notably, Richard Crampton, Sainsbury’s director of fresh food, stated: “We know customers want us to reduce plastic packaging… This change more than halves the plastic used in our lamb mince range.”
The new packaging is fully recyclable, allowing consumers to recycle the material at any Sainsbury’s store through flexible plastic recycling collection points. Sainsbury’s previously pioneered this approach with its beef mince packaging, illustrating its leadership in plastic reduction initiatives within the supermarket sector.
Sainsbury’s leads the way in packaging innovation, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction with this initiative.
