UK Supermarkets change will affect how you buy fruit and vegetables

New regulations will change the way fruits and vegetables are bought in the UK in 2024 and beyond.

Pre-packed fruit and veg in plastic wrapping will soon no longer be available in UK supermarkets, which means customers must pick loose items to buy.

Under new compulsory laws in 2024 to reduce food waste, the change will impact all major supermarkets – including the likes of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Aldi and Lidl.

The move has come about following research that the nation’s food waste amounted to an eye-watering 168 pounds per person in 2021. 

Director Catherine David of anti-waste charity Wrap noted: ‘This is happening because our food system is making it hard for people to buy only what they need and to use more of what they buy.’

However, the charity has stressed that more delicate foods, such as soft fruit, can still be sold in plastic.

Although some supermarkets are already selling fresh items in recyclable bags, the proposed ban will make it compulsory for all stores.

Currently, only 19% of fruit and vegetables are being sold loose – but the aim is to reach 30% by next year.

It’s also estimated that as much as 80% of packaging could be removed within three years, according to reports.

The government hopes this ban on packed veg and fruit will eventually reduce waste – especially considering thousands of tons of plastic packaging are estimated to end up in landfill every year.