So What's new about BerryWorld's packaging?

We've introduced a 100% recyclable packaging solution for our berries. This includes punnets made from 100% recycled plastic (rPET) and a recyclable paper lid made from FSC-certified paper.

This is a significant step in our sustainability journey. By using 100% recycled plastic, from a plastic use we’re lowering our carbon footprint and by using recyclable paper, we're working towards a more circular economy. You can find more information about our sustainability initiatives on our website.

The bit about Plastics

How is it that your plastic punnet is 100% recycled?

The 100% rPET punnet is made possible by combining materials. We use an sandwich structure where the two outer layers are the food contact layers, and the inner layer is the core layer. Traditionally, the inner layer is where the recycled content is, and virgin plastic is used for the outer layers. To produce a 100% rPET punnet, we've replaced the virgin layers with a food-grade rPET pellet, eliminating the use of virgin materials entirely.

How is this different from your previous packs or current packs for other retailers?

Most berry punnets use around 80% rPET but ours is now 100%, so all of the plastic used to make the punnet is recycled content.

How do you make sure the recycled plastic is clean, is it still food safe?

The cleanliness and food safety of recycled plastic is ensured through a rigorous manufacturing process. The recycled plastic, also known as rPET, comes from a certified food safe source. It goes through a manufacturing process which renders it food contact approved. This is supported by supplier declarations of conformity, and the extruded rPET sheet also undergoes various testing to ensure full compliance with food safety.

Can it still be recycled at home if it is already made from 100% recycled materials?

Yes. Plastic can typically be recycled many times over. So 100% rPET punnets can be recycled at home, added back into the recycled material stream, to be turned into new pieces of packaging.

THE BIT ABOUT Paper

Is the paper on your new packs recycled?

While the paper lid isn't made from recycled materials, it's sourced from responsibly managed forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This means the forests are carefully managed to protect biodiversity, support local communities, and maintain their long-term health. We believe this is an important step in our commitment to sustainability.

What does FSC Mix really mean?

The FSC Mix label means that the paper in our packaging comes from a combination of sources:

• FSC-certified forests: These are forests managed according to strict environmental and social standards.
• Recycled materials: This helps reduce the demand for new paper production.
• Controlled wood: While not from certified forests, this wood is sourced responsibly, ensuring it doesn't come from illegal or controversial origins.

By using FSC Mix paper, we're supporting responsible forestry practices while still providing high-quality packaging.

Why isn’t the whole piece of packaging made from paper?

We've carefully considered this, but a combination of materials offers the best balance of functionality and sustainability:

• Visibility: The clear plastic punnet lets you see our beautiful berries, which is important for many shoppers.
• Protection: Plastic is incredibly durable, protecting delicate berries throughout their journey from farm to fridge. This minimises food waste, which is a major contributor to carbon emissions.
• Freshness: The plastic punnet helps to keep berries fresh for longer, reducing waste and ensuring you enjoy them at their best.
• Sustainability: The paper lid adds a sustainable touch while maintaining freshness. Importantly, it allows us to create a 100% recyclable pack that's easy to recycle at home, unlike traditional plastic film lids that often requires specialised recycling.

By using both recycled plastic and recyclable paper, we're maximising the benefits of each material while minimising our environmental impact.

THE BIT ABOUT Recycling

Can I recycle this pack at home?

Yes, simply peel the paper lid and separate from the plastic punnet, then follow your normal recycling principles for your local authority, this may mean separating the two, or in some councils, they may be able to be recycled together. Check here for more information: Recycling Locator tool | Recycle Now

Can I compost the lid?

While the paper lid is recyclable, it's not currently designed to be home compostable. However, it can be recycled with other paper products.

What about the pads in the packs?

Pads will still be used in our blackberry and raspberry packaging to help protect these delicate fruits. Rest assured, we use 100% paper pads that are fully recyclable, so you can dispose of them responsibly alongside the rest of the packaging.

THE BIT ABOUT berries

Are all the berries in this new packaging 100% British?

All of our strawberries and raspberries in this packaging are 100% British. Our British blueberries and blackberries have a shorter season so they're only around for a short time between supply from further afield.

Why aren’t all of our berries British?

The delicious berries that our British growers produce are only available in the summer season running through to late autumn. The primary reason for this is that our local climate is not suitable to grow berries before and after this period. When British berries are not available, our growers abroad continue to produce flavoursome berries to the same high standard that our UK growers do. By doing this it ensures that you have delicious and flavoursome berries all year round.

Furthermore many of our varieties are also award-winning and accredited by the International Taste Institute, meaning that whatever the season, and wherever they are grown in the world, you can always expect fantastic flavour.

Will our berries still be fresh and last as long?

We've found that the plastic punnet packs the perfect punch, preserving the maximum goodness for your berries whilst the paper lid offers a recyclable top that locks in that goodness. Our shelf life trials have shown that this pack performs as well as our previous format, plastic base and plastic film.

Where can I buy these new packs?

The packs are currently exclusive available on ocado.com

How can I provide feedback about the new punnets?

We're always looking for ways to improve, and your feedback is invaluable to us! If you have any comments or suggestions about our new punnets, you can share them with us through by visiting our review page.