TESCO and Asda are making a change to the their fruit and veg aisles to keep food fresher for longer.
Both supermarkets will use new plant-based protection that could double the shelf life of fresh produce.
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The technology will be trialled on a limited number of products and stores, with the potential to roll it out across more lines and branches in future.
It is hoped that it will help to reduce waste as food won’t go off as quickly.
It could also help customers manage their money as the cost of groceries continues to rise, as they won’t have to rebuy spoiled fruit.
Asda will use the technology, named Apeel, in 150 stores to protect citrus fruits and avocados.
The grocer hasn’t confirmed which stores are participating in the trial.
Meanwhile, Tesco said it will introduce Apeel to 80 Tesco Extra and Superstores in the Peterborough area.
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It will coat Jaffa oranges, sweet easy peelers and lemons.
Customers will then be asked to give their feedback.
Tesco group quality director Sarah Bradbury said: “Apeel could be a powerful tool in helping us cut waste in our supply chain and help customers reduce it in their homes.”
Dominic Edwards, senior director at Asda, said: “We are always looking for ways to improve the shelf life of our products and make it easier for our customers to make more sustainable food choices whilst making their money go further.”
Apeel is made from the same materials found in peels, seeds and pulp and slows down the spoiling process by sealing moisture in and locking out oxygen.
Asda said the partnership will help it move towards its target of cutting waste by 50% by 2030.
If you’re concerned about wasting food, there are several apps you can use to help you save money.
Other ways of reducing waste and your grocery bill, you could cut back on shopping trips and look out for yellow-sticker items.
We’ve rounded up plenty of other waste-busting tips, including freezing food and ways of using up leftover fruit.
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