Tesco switches to recyclable cardboard packaging for laundry detergent pods

Tesco has replaced the plastic containers used for its laundry detergent pods with new recyclable cardboard packaging.

The move is expected to save 252 tonnes of plastic annually and over four million pieces of plastic across eight product lines. The cardboard box is made of more than 90% recycled material and is FSC certified, with a thin plastic liner inside to protect the pods. The box can be placed in the household recycle bin once empty.

With over 24 million people in the UK regularly purchasing laundry products, 38% of customers opt for pods, compared to 28% for powder detergent and 34% for liquid or gel. Tesco is also launching larger packs of pods for families at a price of £5.50 for 40 washes, consisting of three products: bio, non-bio, and scented.

This initiative is part of Tesco’s 4Rs packaging strategy to address plastic waste. The strategy involves removing plastic where possible, reducing it where necessary, exploring ways to reuse more, and recycling what is left. Since the launch of the 4Rs strategy in August 2019, Tesco has removed 1.8 billion pieces of plastic and reduced packaging by more than 10,000 tonnes. Many products, such as fruit juices, crisps, and cheese, are now being produced using less plastic.

Tesco Group Quality Director Sarah Bradbury said: "Customers are focused on getting great value right now, but we know that they still want to choose products that use less or no plastic in their packaging. This is one of many changes we're making to reduce unnecessary plastic from products right across our stores."

This article was originally published by Tesco PLC.