Tesco is spearheading sustainability with its new ‘pillow pack’ for fresh mince, reducing plastic usage by 70%.
- This change applies to 500g packs of both 5% and 20% fat beef lean steak mince.
- The ‘pillow pack’ design avoids compression of the meat, unlike vacuum-packed options.
- New packs are more efficient, allowing more to be transported and displayed, boosting availability.
- Part of Tesco’s 4Rs strategy, the packaging is recyclable, aligning with their environmental goals.
In a significant move towards sustainability, Tesco has introduced innovative ‘pillow packs’ for its fresh mince. This change marks a 70% reduction in plastic used compared to traditional tray wrap packs. The initiative is initially implemented on 500g packs of beef lean steak mince, available in both 5% and 20% fat varieties.
Unlike the vacuum-packed beef common in supermarkets like Lidl, Co-op, and Sainsbury’s, the slightly inflated ‘pillow’ design prevents the compression of mince, maintaining its quality until purchase. This attention to product preservation underscores Tesco’s commitment to meeting customer expectations for quality alongside environmental responsibility.
The compact nature of these new packs allows for a more efficient supply chain. With their reduced size, more packs can be transported per delivery, decreasing the number of lorries needed and enhancing the availability of stock on store shelves. This efficiency also extends to storage, where more products can be displayed simultaneously, benefitting both retailer and consumer.
The new packaging aligns with Tesco’s broader environmental objectives under their 4Rs strategy: Remove, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. The pillow packs are designed to be recyclable, contributing to Tesco’s environmental sustainability goals. This strategy has already led to the removal of approximately 2.2 billion pieces of plastic from Tesco’s operations in the UK, demonstrating a tangible impact on the retailer’s environmental footprint.
Dom Morrey, Tesco’s commercial director for fresh products, highlights the dual benefits of the new packaging: “As well as looking for great value when they shop, customers want to see less plastic packaging in their trolleys. Pillow packs are a win-win: they keep the mince in perfect condition while requiring much less plastic.” His remarks echo the broader consumer demand for sustainable shopping options.
Tesco’s transition to pillow packs reflects a robust commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining product quality.
