Delhaize tests NatureWorks PLA for fresh produce packaging

Environmentally-aware consumers in Belgium can shop with good conscience at Delhaize supermarkets thanks to the introduction of fully compostable packaging for selected fresh produce.

Environmentally-aware consumers in Belgium can shop with good conscience at Delhaize supermarkets thanks to the introduction of fully compostable packaging for selected fresh produce. The supermarket chain is testing NatureWorks PLA, 100% nature-based packaging, as an alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics for a range of food containers and bags in its Aalst store. In-store prepared salads, and organic and traditional breads are among the foods being sold in NatureWorks PLA packaging. Currently, transparent delicatessen salad trays and the window on bread bags used by its bakeries are made from the natural material. Stickers and posters are ensuring that shoppers are aware that the packaging can be commercially composted. NatureWorks PLA (polylactide) is completely derived from annually renewable resources. The technology used to produce the material harvests the starch stored in these annually renewable resources (i.e. corn) into natural plant sugars. The sugar is then fermented into lactic acid which is used to create a clear plastic known as polylactide. NatureWorks PLA containers decompose in industrial compost according to standard EN13432.