SuperValu introduce compostable bags in first for an Irish retail chain

SUPERVALU has announced that it is to become the first retailer in Ireland to introduce fully compostable and biodegradable produce bags for use by customers in initially 70 of its stores.

The chain – which has nine franchises in Kerry – said the measure is part of a broader strategy to reduce packaging and make 100 per cent of its Own Brand and fresh produce packaging become recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025.

The compostable produce bags are designed to replace the use of plastic bags within the fruit and veg section with customers using the bags to purchase loose produce.

The compostable produce bags are currently being trialled in around 70 SuperValu stores with a view to making them available across the entire store network.

The free-of-charge compostable produce bags are designed to be breathable to help preserve fruit and veg placed into the bag.

They can also be filled with food waste after use and placed in the brown bin for compostable disposal.

“The introduction of compostable produce bags is an important step for SuperValu as part of an overall commitment to reduce the use of plastics across our supply chain and is part of our broader sustainability strategy to leave a positive impact on the communities that we operate in every day,” said SuperValu Managing Director Martin Kelleher.

“We recognise that this is an important issue for our consumers and for the health of the planet,” Mr Kellaher said.

SuperValu Ireland Managing Director Martin Kelleher at the launch of the chain’s newly introduced compostable produce bags.