Tesco trials new packaging to keep products in 'perfect condition'

The new ‘pillow packs’ are being rolled out across two lines of fresh mince at a limited number of Tesco stores throughout the UK.

Instead of the tray style packaging used to contain mince in the past, the ‘pillow packs’ are slightly inflated which keeps their contents in “perfect condition​”. The new packaging method also uses 70% less plastic than the traditional option.

‘Pillow packs’ are now being trialled on the following lines: ‘500g Tesco Beef Lean Steak Mince 5% fat (£3.49)’ and ‘Tesco Beef Mince 500g 20% fat (£2.49)’.

The new packaging is recyclable and smaller in size, meaning that fewer lorries are needed to transport them and more can fit onto a single shelf.

The retailer has said that it will decide on whether to roll out the packs in more stores and on more lines based on the customer feedback it receives.

“As well as looking for great value when they shop, customers want to see less plastic packaging in their trolleys​,” said Dom Morrey, commercial director for fresh at Tesco.

“Pillow packs are a win-win: they keep the mince in perfect condition while requiring much less plastic​. Removing or reducing unnecessary plastic is an important way that Tesco can reduce its environmental impact. We're proud of what we have done so far but continue to look for ways to do more.” ​

As part of an effort to increase the sustainability of its operations, Tesco now employs a '4R' packaging strategy which focuses on removing, reducing, reusing and recycling plastic from its operations wherever possible.

The supermarket claims to have removed more than 200m bags from deliveries, over 100m lids from a range of different products and 50m pieces of plastic wrapping from beer and cider cans.

In other news, the first cultivated meat application in the UK has been submitted by Aleph Farms​​.