On our continued path toward a more sustainable future, we at Superfresh Growers® have made a significant change to our packaging to enhance consumer recyclability. Over time, with the support of our global supplier partners, we have been transitioning from multi-layer plastic polypropylene (PP) in our pouch bags to optimally recyclable low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Though a seemingly minor change, this was an extensive process spanning over two years that is sure to have a positive lasting effect on the recycling stream due to its ease of processing and sortation.
Superfresh Growers recyclable bags.
According to the APR Design® Guide, “As of September 2024, PP flexible film collection systems are limited in North America to Canada… so this material does not currently meet the collection accessibility criteria established in ‘APR’s definition of recyclable.’” With that being said, it was important to us to transition away from PP, especially since the most commonly used collection systems nationwide are currently for polyethylene (PE).
Not only does this advancement improve recycling efforts, but it also benefits our operations and customers seeking clarity and consistency in the materials distributed globally. Some of those benefits include the fact that LDPE is resistant to moisture and chemicals while also offering great transparency for products where visibility is essential. According to Eco Recycling Today, “It is [also] relatively inexpensive to produce, which makes it a cost-effective choice for high-volume applications like packaging and plastic bags.”
Superfresh Growers® transitioned from polypropylene (PP #5) packaging to low-density polyethylene (LDPE #4) to improve recyclability and support a more efficient recycling stream.
Consumers may not physically see this material change, but they will begin to see the updated recycling labels indicating the product is optimally recyclable for store drop-off. The label is unique to the United States and is eligible solely for PE film because of the specific process the film undergoes once it enters the recycling stream. Products like composite decking, plastic bags, and outdoor furniture are typically made from this recycled film. Store drop-off bins are widely accessible across the country, so many retailers will have signage directing consumers to where to drop their plastic. We have been working diligently with How2Recycle to ensure that we can clearly communicate to consumers that our products are recyclable and compliant with California’s recent Senate Bill 343, which aims to reduce misleading symbolism that suggests a product is recyclable when, in reality, that’s not always the case.
We would be remiss not to mention another major development in our plastic packaging that began in 2023 – the transition from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in our berry and cherry clamshells to 100% recycled PET (rPET). This has been an environmentally huge step in the right direction for Superfresh Growers, and we recognize the many benefits this brings, including a reduction of landfill waste by 7.4 cubic yards, a decrease in energy usage by 60%, and 79% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, to name a few (Lintec of America, Inc, 2025).
In that very same year, we also became the first in the apple and pear industry to introduce a poly bag made from post-consumer recycled content (PCR). A notable move toward a circular recycling system that not only maintains the quality of freshness necessary for fruit, but is also comparable in cost to producing bags from 100% virgin plastic.
As we move forward, we will continue minimizing our carbon emissions by initiating more sustainable projects similar to our achievements with recycling, while also tracking and providing annual emissions reports to customers detailing our progress. Sustainability will always remain an important focus for us, and we’re excited to keep finding new opportunities to make a positive impact.
