Aldi has become the first UK supermarket to launch a 100% recyclable own-brand freezer bag.
The eco-friendly bags, which retail at 99p, are first being sold in 230 stores across parts of England, with plans to roll them out across Aldi’s 900 UK stores if the trial is successful.
Made from 95% recyclable polyethylene and 5% seafood waste – also known as ‘shell waste’ – the new bags are also treated with an antimicrobial agent that has been proven to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mould.
“It’s more important than ever to strike a balance between reducing single-use plastic and maintaining food hygiene,” said Chris McKenry, Aldi UK’s plastics and packaging director.
“Thanks to its antimicrobial qualities, this recyclable freezer bag enables us to continue on our mission to eradicate unnecessary non-recyclable materials while also offering customers a more hygienic way of storing and transporting food.
“Our promise to always offer quality at unbeatable prices goes beyond just great food – it’s about catering to the needs of our customers in every way we can, and a rapidly-growing number of those who shop with us want to do so sustainably without breaking the bank.”
Aldi is the UK’s fifth-largest supermarket, but is currently the only one to offer a 100% recyclable own-brand freezer bag.
The trial, which runs in the East Midlands, Yorkshire, the north west, north east and south east of England, is the latest initiative made by Aldi in its bid to become a more sustainable retailer.
In October, the German-owned retailer announced plans to scrap single-use bags for loose fruit and vegetables from all of its stores by the end of the year – part of a drive to make 100% of its own-label packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2022, with the same target for branded goods by 2025.
Image courtesy of Aldi UK.
