Social media users are calling attention to produce bags with zipper seals that fail to close properly due to overly thin plastic, rendering the resealable feature useless.
What's happening?
Fresh Express produce bags are coming under fire after consumers noticed the zipper seals on their salad bags don't function as intended.
"Ziplocks on produce bags that are too thin to allow them to work properly," one Reddit user pointed out in a post that quickly gained traction.
"It's a ploy so your salad goes bad faster, and you have to buy more. Those bastards!" another frustrated commenter wrote.
Why is faulty food packaging concerning?
When packaging fails to protect fresh produce adequately, it can lead to accelerated spoilage and unnecessary food waste.
This is particularly troubling given that Americans throw away about 38% of their food supply annually, per Feeding America, with much of it ending up in landfills where it produces harmful methane gas as it breaks down.
Faulty packaging that hastens spoilage only compounds this issue, forcing consumers to either eat their produce more quickly than planned or risk wasting food and money.
Is Fresh Express doing anything about this?
Fresh Express has previously highlighted its commitment to sustainability through initiatives like its "Fresh Foods, Fresh Thinking" program, which focuses on reducing environmental impact throughout its supply chain.
The company has also worked to minimize packaging materials where possible.
🗣️ What's the most common reason you end up throwing away food?
🔘 Bought more than I could eat 🛒
🔘 Went bad sooner than I expected 👎
🔘 Forgot it was in the fridge 😞
🔘 Didn't want leftovers 🥡
🗳️ Click your choice to see results and speak your mind
However, complaints like the OP's suggest there may be room for improvement in the company's packaging design to better preserve food and prevent waste.
What's being done about food packaging more broadly?
Many produce companies are actively working to develop more effective and sustainable packaging solutions.
Some retailers are introducing sturdy, reusable produce containers that can be returned and sanitized for future use. Others are experimenting with plant-based packaging materials that maintain freshness while reducing environmental impact.
Consumers can take several steps to extend produce life despite packaging issues. Transferring greens to reusable containers with tight-fitting lids can help maintain freshness longer. Adding a paper towel to absorb excess moisture can also extend shelf life.
Some shoppers are opting to purchase whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-cut options, reducing both packaging waste and cost while maintaining better control over freshness.
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