Emerald Packaging, Inc. has collaborated with D'Arrigo California, which ships under the Andy Boy label, to further develop a post-consumer recycled (PCR) bag for its premiere romaine hearts products. The bag will be available in all grocers that carry Andy Boy romaine hearts across North America.
The two companies share a commitment to improving the environment in their respective industries. The new romaine hearts bag will be made up of 30 percent PCR plastic, helping D'Arrigo California and Emerald Packaging reduce the need for virgin plastic production, taking a step towards a more circular economy. PCR reduces plastic pollution by diverting waste material from landfills, which could also end up in the oceans.
D'Arrigo California has used five percent PCR in millions of their three-count romaine heart bags since the beginning of the year, stepping up PCR content over the last several months. In December, D'Arrigo California will transition their two-count romaine heart and three-count romaine heart bags to 30 percent PCR, the current sweet spot for the resin in flexible packaging meant for grocery stores.
"Expanding the use of post-consumer recycled packaging in food packaging is a big leap forward in sustainable plastics," said Kevin Kelly, chief executive officer of Emerald Packaging, Inc. "It's an exciting time as we take critical steps towards achieving sustainability while doing so affordably."
D'Arrigo California has a proven track record of integrating environmental initiatives into its daily operations, with a focus on making farming, as well as its packaging, more sustainable. Over the last few years, D'Arrigo California has cut the amount of plastic used in their romaine packaging by 25 percent and has also eliminated the zipper, which has reduced plastic by another five percent. Plastic reduction is a natural extension of D'Arrigo California's overall sustainability efforts, which include commitments to recycling, solar power, and water conservation.
"We've made substantial investments in solar power and recycling and have implemented packaging solutions that substantially decrease our use of plastic and its environmental impact. The incorporation of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials in our packaging exemplifies our unwavering commitment to sustainability," said John D'Arrigo, president and chief executive officer of D'Arrigo California. "We appreciate our enduring partnership with Emerald Packaging, a valued collaborator who shares our dedication to sustainability and innovation. They have played an instrumental role in advancing this cutting-edge technology."
For more information:
www.empack.com
www.andyboy.com