A Warriewood mother noticed Coles has started using paper bags for grapes. This move aims to tackle Australia’s significant plastic waste problem, as the nation consumes 3.79 million tonnes of plastic each year.
Coles’ New Packaging Initiatives
Coles has begun replacing some plastic grocery bags with recyclable paper alternatives, starting with grape bags at their Warriewood Square store in New South Wales. This change is part of a broader company initiative to reduce unnecessary plastic in their stores. A Coles spokeswoman stated that the fresh produce department is a key area for packaging innovation.
They highlighted other trials, such as plastic-free blueberry packaging in cardboard punnets and recyclable bags for mandarins, which reportedly prevented 11,700 kilograms of plastic from circulating in a year. The company expressed satisfaction with the positive customer response to the new grape bags and indicated plans to introduce more innovative packaging solutions.
Customer Feedback and Concerns
While many customers have welcomed the paper grape bags, some have raised concerns about their durability and the ability to see the quality of the grapes through the paper. One noted that the bags might rip easily, similar to paper shopping bags. However, another customer clarified that the bags are intended for short-distance transport within the store and then to be placed in a larger bag for carrying home.
Contradictions and Supermarket Plastic Use
Despite these efforts, Coles faced criticism after a photo circulated online showing a sign promoting reusable produce bags placed in front of plastic-packaged cherry tomatoes. A Coles spokesperson acknowledged the error, stating that the sign was misplaced and would be corrected. They reiterated the company’s commitment to reducing unnecessary packaging while also recognising the role of packaging in protecting products and reducing food waste.
Report Highlights Supermarket Plastic Issues
A recent Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) report revealed a significant gap between supermarkets’ sustainability commitments and their actual practices. The “Unwrapped 2024” report audited major supermarkets, including Coles, and found that discounts are often offered on plastic-wrapped produce, incentivising customers to choose these options over loose items.
The report also indicated that loose produce is frequently more expensive than plastic-wrapped alternatives. The AMCS report suggests that fresh produce should be sold loose unless retailers demonstrate that packaging reduces food waste.
Community and Alternative Solutions
Customers online have suggested various solutions, such as selling cherry tomatoes loose by weight or using cardboard packaging with a thin plastic film. Others have advocated for shopping at bulk food stores and using reusable containers.
Concerns were raised about the potential for increased food waste with loose produce, as some items, like cherry tomatoes, have a short shelf life and are prone to mould.
Published Date 18-March-2025
