Do we need so much packaging?

Do we need so much packaging?

Are you fed up with excess packaging? Find out how to make your feelings clear to food manufacturers and retailers.

While some foods are delicate and need extra TLC, most of us suspect that much over-packaging is about marketing it to consumers.

What's more, some overpacked produce is also more expensive than the equivalent loose items. For example, in Tesco in July 2007, loose British leeks were £1.98 per kilo, but British leeks bagged and 'extra trimmed' were priced at £2.48 a kilo - a massive 20 per cent price hike.

Could supermarkets do more?

Supermarket basket Amongst other initiatives, ASDA and Sainsbury's have set packaging reduction targets of 10 per cent by 2008, and 5 per cent by 2010 respectively, while Marks & Spencer has committed to reducing packaging by 25 per cent by 2012. Other supermarkets, such as Morrisons and Tesco, are revising their packaging guidelines, and all have introduced individual initiatives.

So what can you do?

While you might not want to kick up a fuss at the checkout, try our seven tips to help you do your bit.

See next page for seven top tips

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