Retailer partners with Belgian grower Royakkers to implement sustainable packaging solution, with QR codes providing consumers with information about origin and cultivation methods
Supermarket chain Delhaize has replaced the packaging used for its Belgian-grown strawberries from plastic to new cardboard punnets.
It says the move will save 17 tonnes of plastic this year, and could eventually cut as much as 52 tonnes of plastic per year from its supply chain as more growers make the switch.
According to the retailer, the domestically grown fruit is placed in the cardboard punnets immediately after picking, something which minimises handling and helps to maintain quality.
It has also added a QR code to the packaging, which shoppers can use to access information about the strawberries’ origin, sustainable cultivation methods, and the grower.
The strawberries are grown exclusively for Delhaize by its partner Royakkers, and the entire production process – from keeping young plants in coldstorage to harvesting the ripe fruits by hand – takes place in Belgium itself.
The country’s strawberry market has reportedly experienced annual growth of around 10 per cent for several years.
“Demand increases every year, and more and more customers want to extend the season – both earlier in the spring and later in the autumn,” a spokesperson said. “Delhaize is adjusting its planning accordingly to meet this growing demand.”
Thanks to a good spring and continued summer weather this year, fruit set is said to be going well and good production is expected.
“Strawberries remain a weather-sensitive product, meaning prices can fluctuate significantly,” the retailer added. “By working with established growers, Delhaize can not only offer customers a more stable price but also guarantee that growers receive fair compensation for their work.”
