Europe Edition
Westfalia Fruit USA recently launched a 100 percent plastic-free bagged avocado program in the United States, alongside a one-of-a-kind partnership with CIRT (Can I Recycle This), a recycling technology platform. Westfalia Fruit USA will showcase new sustainable packaging solutions for its avocados at Southern Innovations in Charlotte, North Carolina this week.
The solutions-oriented packaging features TÜV-certified netting made of home-compostable cellulose fiber yarns and paper-based film. Partnering with CIRT means a user-friendly QR code gives consumers real-time information on the recyclability and home compostability of the packaging by zip code.
Westfalia partnering with CIRT means a user-friendly QR code gives consumers information on the recyclability and home compostability of the packaging by zip code.
“As a purpose-driven company, sustainable avocado production, plastic-free packaging and environmental protection are all especially important to our organization,” said Raina Nelson, president and CEO. “We continue to invest in unique technology, such as CIRT’s platform, and sustainable packaging in the United States and countries around the globe to do good for our customers, our shoppers and our planet.”
Westfalia Fruit was born out of a vision centered around sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices over 70 years ago and aims to achieve zero waste to landfill by 2025 and carbon neutrality by 2030. Ultimately, through clear and measurable targets, Westfalia Fruit will recover lifetime carbon emissions by 2049.
Through clear and measurable targets, Westfalia Fruit will recover lifetime carbon emissions by 2049.
“Our platform, QR code and API technologies empower consumers and companies alike with real-time information on recyclability and compostability, making informed choices easier than ever,” said Kat Shayne, CEO and founder of CIRT. “Together with Westfalia, we are not only reducing plastic waste but also inspiring change across the entire fresh produce market."
According to a recent study by the Hass Avocado Board (HAB), bagged avocados make up a quarter of all avocado purchases. “While shoppers seek convenience in bagged fruit, we are excited to see Westfalia Fruit USA provide consumers with proper instructions on what to do when they are finished with the packaging based on their location,” said Christian Foster, CIRT's chief partnership officer. "With our custom CIRT QR code on the new cellulose bags, consumers will be prompted to engage with the label and Westfalia will have additional data to better understand their packaging footprint.”
Since 1949, Westfalia Fruit has remained committed to producing safe, quality food while ensuring sustainable, ethical and responsible management of its bio-resources and the communities and environments in which they grow across the globe.
The new sustainable bag program will be displayed at upcoming industry events, kicking off at Southern Innovations. For more information, visit the company’s booth, #515, at Southern Innovations.
For more information:
Christina Ward
Westfalia Fruit
christina.ward@westfaliafruit.com
www.westfaliafruit.com
