As part of its commitment to sustainability, Tesco is introducing laser-etched avocados, replacing traditional barcode stickers with innovative laser etching. This move is a significant step towards reducing plastic waste in the packaging industry.

"We're always looking for innovative ways to reduce the environmental impact of our products, and cut down on plastic waste in the home through changes to our packaging," says Lisa Gilbey, Tesco's avocado buyer. The technology behind the laser etching comes from Westfalia Fruit, a leading global supplier of avocados. Westfalia conducted thorough trials to ensure that the laser etching process does not affect the quality, shelf life, or taste of the avocados.

The laser etching process uses high-powered lasers to remove a tiny section of the avocado skin, creating a durable "tattoo" with essential information like size and variety. This innovative approach benefits both customers and cashiers, eliminating the need for traditional barcode stickers that can easily be forgotten and left on when recycling through household food waste.

In addition to laser-etched avocados, Tesco is also testing a shift from plastic tray packaging to recyclable cardboard containers for two of their most popular avocado varieties. This move aims to make packaging more environmentally friendly and easier to recycle.

The trials will be conducted in approximately 270 Tesco stores in southeast England. If customer feedback is favourable, Tesco plans to expand the initiative across all their stores. This commitment to sustainability is a significant step towards reducing plastic waste in the packaging industry.