Coles ditches plastic for paper grape bags – but not everyone is happy

Coles has introduced paper bags for its grapes, replacing traditional plastic packaging in an effort to reduce environmental impact. The initiative follows a successful trial in Victoria and Tasmania, with the supermarket reporting that over 64 tonnes of plastic bags were prevented from reaching landfill during the pilot phase. The new paper ‘handbags’ are now being rolled out across all stores nationwide.

Customers have shared mixed opinions about the switch, with many praising the environmentally friendly change.

“Grabbed them today, happy they changed,” one shopper commented.

“I’m so impressed. This is such an easy change that will make a big difference,” wrote another.

Others described the design as “smart” and said they “loved it” and that the bags “worked well.”

“They are great. I washed my grapes in this bag … holes at the bottom. Drained and ate them. Then composted the bag,” one customer shared.

Another shopper noted that the packaging helped keep their grapes “fresh.”

However, some customers have raised concerns about the practicality of the new bags.

“Good in theory, but I like being able to see into the clear bag to make sure they aren't all gross inside,” one person said.

Another commented: “Well you can't see all the bad (grapes) hiding in there.”

Durability has also been a point of contention, with several shoppers reporting that the bags ripped easily.

“Ours ripped just lifting it into the trolley,” one customer claimed.

“Have you tried carrying them though? The handles rip so easily. Really not practical,” another shared.

While the transition to paper packaging aims to improve sustainability, it has sparked debate among shoppers over functionality and design.

In May last year, Coles announced the launch of recyclable paper bag packaging for its Unique Selection mandarins, replacing the traditional plastic net bags.