Supermarket giant Coles has announced it has replaced plastic net bags with recyclable paper bags packaging for mandarins.

The new-look packaging solution for Coles Unique Selection mandarins will avoid the use of 11,700 kilograms of plastic in one year and can be recycled kerbside. 

With more than one million of the paper bags expected to be sold between April and October this year, Coles GM fresh produce Charlotte Gilbert said the packaging update was proof the retailer was looking to reduce waste and make recycling more convenient and accessible for its customers. 

“Customers can still purchase their favourite mandarin loose, including the delicious Imperial and Afourer varieties, with more than 16 million tonnes of the citrus fruit expected to be sold across Coles stores this season,” she said. 

Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling praised Coles for providing a recyclable alternative to the plastic net bags traditionally used as part of the company’s efforts to reduce food and packaging waste across operations. 

“It’s very positive to see Coles designing packaging to avoid plastic waste and provide Aussies with a recyclable alternative to a plastic net bag. While we support buying loose and reusing bags where possible, we commend Coles for its work to close the recycling loop and provide customers with products that can be easily recycled,” said Gilling

The new-style packets of mandarins in paper bags (800g) are available in all states and territories excluding Western Australia and start from $5.50. 

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