The main argument of the plastic manufacturers is that they are extending the shelf life of the product, reducing food waste. While the use of plastic packaging has increased by about a third over the last 10 years, wasting food has become more common at the same time, says Sommer. "It is still the case that of our exquisitely produced foods, only about two thirds end up on our plate: one third ends up in the bin.
But in the fruit trade, environmentally friendly alternatives are on the rise, confirms Christa Kühling - Managing Director of the wholesaler firm of the same name, based in Emstek. She mentions wood pulp trays for berry fruits as an example. “But even wooden trays - small packages made entirely of wood - are increasingly in demand. When it comes to larger packaging, cardboard is much in demand, especially now, for our asparagus.”
New reusable alternatives are already being tested for the purpose of achieving a perfect life cycle assessment, for carrier bags as well. The proportion of paper bags, for example, is increasing significantly, although they cost up to four times more than their plastic equivalent. The perfect solution should have a good price-performance ratio and must be reusable about four times. Kühling: "Currently we have, for example, bags made from potato and corn starch. But they are still in the test phase.”
For more information:
Kühling Fruchthandel KG
Nordallee 11, 49685 Emstek-Drantum
Telefon: 04473-92774-0
Telefax: 04473-92774-29
E-Mail: info@kuehling-fruchthandel.de