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Recycled Plastic Hits Grocery Shelves
3 Jun
Summary
- Company achieves FDA approval for recycled food-contact plastic.
- Potato bags now feature 30% post-consumer recycled material.
- Over 1 million pounds of virgin plastic replaced annually.
Emerald Packaging has achieved a significant milestone with FDA approval for its recycled food-contact plastic. This breakthrough directly addresses packaging waste by incorporating post-consumer recycled plastic.
In collaboration with Walmart, Idaho Package, and Wada Farms, the company has introduced potato bags made with 30% recycled material. This initiative alone replaces more than 1 million pounds of virgin polyethylene each year.
Furthering its commitment, Emerald Packaging partnered with D'Arrigo's Andy Boy brand to create romaine lettuce heart bags also using 30% recycled content. This particular project is set to eliminate over 600,000 pounds of virgin plastic between 2023 and 2025.
Despite this progress, challenges remain, including industry hesitation, uneven recycling infrastructure, and cost concerns. Ongoing discussions also encompass food waste, greenhouse gas emissions, policy development, and the need for greater collaboration.
