UK retailer Asda has announced that it is testing a technology that uses a plant-derived, water-based coating to extend the shelf life of fruit and vegetables.
Developed by Apeel Sciences, the innovative technology will help the retailer is reducing plastic packaging and preventing food waste.
The edible coating is derived from peels, seeds, and pulp of edible fruit and vegetables and acts as an extra peel, Asda said.
'Reduce Food Waste'
Nasir Ahmed, produce technical manager at Asda, said, "We’re always looking at how we can reduce food waste right the way through our supply chain and into our customers’ homes.
"Increasing shelf life means our customers can enjoy fresher produce for longer, so we’re really excited about the potential of Apeel and I’m delighted Asda is part of this trial."
Presently, clementines coated with the innovative material is available in two Asda outlets in Kent and Yorkshire.
It is also the first time that the technology is being tested in the UK after it was approved for use by the EU commission in June of this year, the retailer said.
'Validating Apeel’s Ability'
Gordon Robertson, chief revenue officer at Apeel Sciences, said, "This commercial test will be the next step in validating Apeel’s ability to make an impact on reducing food waste in stores and for consumers, with the goal of Apeel produce arriving on shelves at more Asda stores and other retailers across Europe."
The retailer is also testing the coating technology on cucumbers, which it says has yielded 'promising' results.
The outcome of the trial will also help in gauging the effectiveness of the technology, which will contribute to reducing the use of pesticides and other post-harvest treatment.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
