Out the Box

Plant-based shelf-life revolution

Supermarket giants Asda and Tesco are introducing plant-based protection for citrus fruits and avocados in UK stores to increase shelf life and prevent food waste.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Apeel’s plant-based protection is made from the same materials found in peels, seeds and pulp, aiming to slow down the spoiling process. It works by sealing moisture in and keeping oxygen out so that quality and freshness can be maintained for longer. The protective extra ‘peel’ aims to slow the water loss and oxidation that causes produce to spoil.

WHAT ARE THE SUPERMARKETS DOING?

Asda is introducing the plant-based protection for citrus fruits and avocados in 150 stores to increase shelf life and prevent food waste. Meanwhile, approximately 80 Tesco Extras and Superstores around the Peterborough area are stocking Apeel-coated Jaffa Oranges, Jaffa Sweet Easy Peelers and Lemon Packs to understand the effect it has on shelf life.

WHY IS THIS TECHNOLOGY SO IMPORTANT?

Food waste is a global issue, identified as a significant contributor to climate change, accounting for 8% of total greenhouse gas emissions. In the UK alone, food waste is responsible for an estimated 36 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions every year, according to charity Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP). Apeel’s technology could help the supermarkets move towards their target of cutting food waste. In addition, Apeel could also help reduce plastic packaging. Currently, the shelf life of cucumbers is extended by using plastic wrap. This will no longer be needed if Apeel is able to replicate the protective benefit of packaging.

WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING?

Asda Senior Director, Dominic Edwards, said: “We are always looking for ways to improve the shelf life of our products and make it easier for our customers to make more sustainable food choices whilst making their money go further.During this programme, we will be learning more about the benefits of longer-lasting produce for our customers, and we are looking forward to seeing what further developments this could lead to in the future.”

Apeel Chief Executive, James Rogers, added: “Asda is obsessed with helping their customers’ budgets stretch farther. Now with the availability of longer-lasting produce, Asda has opened a new dimension of value for their shoppers. When shoppers have more time with their food, more of what they buy gets eaten instead of thrown away. How often does saving money help save the planet? It’s happening every day at Asda.”

Sarah Bradbury, Tesco Group Quality Director, said: “Tackling food waste is one of the ways we’re working hard to minimise our environmental impact and help protect the planet.

“Apeel could be a powerful tool in helping us cut waste in our supply chain and help customers reduce it in their homes.”